WINGHAM – United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) is encouraging northern Huron and area residents to bundle up and raise money for the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk, a family-friendly winter fundraising event in support of local individuals experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness.
“We’re happy to welcome CNOY back to Wingham,” said Kate Procter, chair of UWPH’s Northern Huron and Area Community Committee. “Funds raised will address the issues of chronic homelessness in northern Huron and area. We invite everyone to walk with us and help us reach our $45,000 goal.”
This year’s second annual Wingham walk includes an in-person event on Feb. 25, 2023, as well as an option to walk any time, any distance during the month of February.
For the in-person walk, event check-in begins at 4 p.m. at the Libro Credit Union and Maitland River Community Church parking lots, with opening ceremonies scheduled for 5 p.m. Snacks and refreshments will be served at 6 p.m. at the Maitland River Community Church. Walkers can choose a two- or five-kilometre route ending up back at the Libro Credit Union and Maitland River Community Church parking lots. Participants raising over $150, $75 for youth under 18, receive CNOY toques.
To register as an individual or team, visit cnoy.org.
UWPH officials state that by walking, participants will better understand the experience of being on the streets during a cold Canadian winter while raising funds to aid UWPH’s local work in support of the forthcoming Northern Huron Connection Centre. The connection centre will be a welcoming place offering basic needs such as light meals, a shower, washroom facilities and laundry along with additional support through partnerships with numerous agencies.
Last year’s CNOY raised $40,817 thanks to the efforts of 118 walkers, 28 teams and 547 donors.
