With less than a month to go, the inaugural Coldest Night of the Year Walk in Bradford is more than halfway to its fundraising goal of $20,000.
The community walk is a chance for residents, families, neighbours and friends to come together for a good cause, by walking in-person or virtually, a 2km or 5km loop along Holland Street West to raise awareness and funds for the homeless, hungry and hurting in the region.
Over the years, neighbouring communities like Newmarket and Barrie have hosted the walk, but this will be the first one in the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, organized by United Way Simcoe Muskoka. The event will take place on Saturday, Feb. 26 at 4 p.m. in front of the Bradford Leisure Centre.
With COVID, event coordinator for the Bradford walk, Rosi Martin says she wasn't sure what to expect in terms of community response when she launched the event a few months but is overwhelmed with all the support received from the community so far through sponsorships and donations.
"The momentum is really building," said Martin. "We are really happy with how people have jumped on board so willing to participate."
So far there are 20 teams registered for a total of 100 walkers, and over a dozen business sponsors with $13,731 raised. Martin says at this rate, the goal of $20,000 may need to be increased.
The money raised from the Bradford event will go toward the YouthCALL Service Link project, helping youth aged 14-28 who are experiencing difficult challenges in their lives, from food insecurity to suicidal tendencies, and homelessness. The service link started off as face-to-face in-person meetings, but since the onset of COVID has become a hotline where youth are able to speak to a live agent one-on-one, who can refer them to a drop-in location for support.
"I am proud of our little town, whenever there's a need people have been so quick to step up," said Martin about the event's fundraising efforts so far. "It's lovely to see everybody rallying and being excited about doing something. Everyone is looking for something positive to look forward to and be a part of."
Last year, the national CNOY walk went virtual due to COVID restrictions but was able to raise more money than ever before, a record-breaking $9.9M.
Adults who raise a minimum of $150 will receive a CNOY toque. Children under 18 who raise a minimum of $75 will also receive one, while supplies last.
Boston Pizza Bradford recently announced its fundraising initiative for the cause, with $1 from every sale of their heart-shaped pizzas on Valentine's Day and mint chocolate mousse cakes until the end of March, being donated back to the walk. Customers can also support by purchasing a $2 paper heart in-store or online.
Volunteers of all kinds are also needed for the day of, from greeters to route marshals. All volunteer positions and descriptions are listed on the CNOY website.
The town will be hosting a Coldest Night of the Year flag-raising ceremony the week of the walk to commemorate the inaugural event.
Sign up to register a team, join a team, donate, sponsor, or volunteer on the CNOY Bradford page here.
