2016 COMMUNITY EVENT | Coldest Night of the Year

Description

The Coldest Night of the Year is an annual, national fundraising initiative that raises funds and awareness for people living with homelessness.  The event takes place on the evening of Saturday, February 20^th in cities across Canada, regardless of the weather.  The idea is to give participants an idea of what it is like to spend a duration of time outside in one of winter’s coldest months, all while raising funds for the cause.  The walk is 2 kilometers, 5 kilometers or 10 kilometers – your choice!

The Salvation Army Ridge Meadows Ministries began hosting this event in 2013 in Maple Ridge.  In the first year, the event raised close to $12,000 for their ministry in our communities, with over 120 participants.  Since then, the event has brought in close to $25,000 for the essential services provided by The Salvation Army.

Participation in the Coldest Night of the Year is generally done in teams; however people are free to register, fundraise and walk as individuals.  The advantage to having a team is having support in the fundraising component ($150 minimum for adults, $75 for children), as well as companionship on walk-night.  This year we are offering a pizza party as extra incentive to the team that raises the most money.  The second place team will receive a Tim Horton’s “coffee break” on the day of their choosing.  Teams can be made up of two people or twenty, and it is the role of the team captain to champion the teams’ membership.  It is important to note that an individual can still participate in the event even if they don’t wish to fundraise – there is a $25 registration fee required however to offset administrative costs.

Consider hosting a team in your circle.  Be it your Girl Guides group, your ball hockey team, or your book club.  The Salvation Army Ridge Meadows is here to help every step of the way with fundraising and walker training.

Join us on the evening of February 20^th, 2016 for the Coldest Night of the Year.  Registration opens at 4:00pm and the Walk begins at 5:00pm.  Participants who raise $150 or more receive a special Coldest Night of the Year toque, and all participants regardless of how much they raise, can enjoy chili and hot chocolate after they are done their walk.