JASON SETNYK
It may not have been the coldest night of the year – but it was one of the warmest in spirit. Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties raised $10,634.65 locally during this year’s Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY), welcoming nearly 80 walkers who stepped out in support of affordable housing.
The annual winter fundraising walk takes place across Canada in support of charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. In Cornwall, proceeds support local builds through Habitat for Humanity. “We’re proud to be participating in the Coldest Night of the Year, an event that shines a light on the very real challenges of hurt, hunger, and homelessness in our community,” said Leigh Taggart, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties. “Every step taken by our teams and supporters represents hope and a shared commitment to ensuring that everyone has a safe, affordable place to call home.” Participants registered individually or as teams and walked either a 2 km or 5 km route, collecting pledges in advance. Funds raised help Habitat acquire land, build homes, and partner with families who contribute sweat equity and pay an affordable mortgage geared to income.
“This year, we were thrilled to have a number of teams and individual participants join us, nearly 80 walkers in total – all stepping up to make a difference,” Taggart said. “Their enthusiasm and generosity demonstrate just how deeply our community cares.” For those unable to volunteer on a build site, the walk offers another way to contribute.
“For those who haven’t yet had an opportunity to volunteer on one of our build sites, this is a meaningful way to get involved,” she added. “By walking and raising funds, participants are directly helping us build more local affordable housing units for working families.” Habitat has already set its sights on next year’s event, scheduled for February 27. “Together, we can turn compassion into action and create lasting change right here at home,” Taggart said.
L’article Warm community support for Coldest Night est apparu en premier sur Cornwall Seaway News.