Saturday isn’t expected to be the coldest night of 2014 but a special awareness and fundraising walk for the homeless that day will help bring into focus the plight of people who have to brave the elements year round.
On Feb. 22, the Salvation Army Gateway of Hope shelter is hosting the Coldest Night of the Year, a winter walk fundraiser.
Organizers with the Salvation Army Gateway of Hope are calling on the community to create teams and recruit walkers to help raise awareness of homelessness while raising funds for Gateway of Hope’s programs and services.
As of Wednesday, Feb. 19, the event had close to 20 teams and 74 walkers involved, along with 13 volunteers and had raised more than 30 per cent of the fundraising goal of $25,000.
It’s not too late to take part, either leading up to or on the day of the walk.
Registration will open at 4 p.m. at the Gateway of Hope, 5787 Langley Bypass, followed by opening ceremonies at 5 p.m. and the official start at 5:15 p.m.
Registration cost is $25 per person.
The sign-up fee will be waived for those who raise $150 or more in pledges.
Participants can walk two-, five- or 10-kilometres and then arrive back at the Gateway of Hope for a bowl of chili and other treats.
Those who pay the registration fee or raise a minimum of $150 in pledges will receive a free Coldest Night of the Year toque.