Northumberland County residents can lace up their boots or walking shoes later this month in support of Green Wood Coalition.
People can register now to take part in the Coldest Night of the Year event in Port Hope.
The Coldest Night of the Year is a national family-friendly two-kilometre or five-kilometre walk on February 24 in support of local charities serving people who are experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness.
“Join us in downtown Port Hope as we unite to bring awareness to the challenges of homelessness, hunger, and hardship in Northumberland County,” said Green Wood Coalition in a statement.
The event begins at 10 Robertson Street in downtown Port Hope on Saturday, February 24th with a check-in time of 4 p.m. After a kick-off speech and zumba warm-up with Tanya from Epic Gymnastics and Dance, the walk gets underway at 5 p.m., with rest stops at Queenies Bake Shop and Ganaraska Financial.
After the walk at 6 p.m., a snack from Happenstance Roastery and Bakery will be provided, along with hot chocolate, tea, and coffee.
Residents can register a team, sign up to walk, or make a donation to raise funds for Green Wood Coalition’s outreach programs.
Green Wood programs include street outreach services, harm reduction supports, a community garden initiative, an art “hive,” and community education, along with its “High-Fidelity WrapAround” program that it offers in partnership with Wrap Canada.
As of the date of this story, $40,071 of the $95,000 Coldest Night of the Year fundraising goal in Northumberland County had been raised by 216 walkers and 54 teams.
Along with community sponsors, local businesses supporting the event include Olympus Burger, which will donate 10 per cent of all meals purchased by walkers on February 24 (just say you’re a walker) and Ganaraska Brewing Company, which is donating a portion of its sales from February 19 to 25.
Organized by the registered charity Blue Sea Foundation, The Coldest Night of the Year take place in both Canada and the United States on February 24, with local activities being held in various communities. Since 2011, the event has raised over $75 million across Canada in 190 communities.
For more information about the Port Hope walk including route maps, and to register or donate, visit cnoy.org/location/porthope.
