Donors can pledge financial backing for their trek, which goes directly to the local charity which the walker is supporting. Photo Credit: Coldest Night of the Year West Niagara/Facebook.
On Saturday, Feb. 22, Project SHARE, a Niagara Falls Charity, once again joined communities across Canada by participating in Coldest Night of the Year. The event is held annually, each February, in support of charitable organizations.
Coldest Night of the Year provides an opportunity for participants to commit to walking two or five kilometres. Upon registering for free online, walkers are able to set up a Fundhub page where donors can pledge financial backing for their trek, which goes directly to the local charity which the walker is supporting.
Many people complete their walk on the day of the event while others may do so at a time and/or route of their choosing.
Perry and Sue Wong participated in the Niagara Falls walk through the Redeemer Bible Church and Friends team, in which Perry served as team captain.
“(It is) personally uplifting to attend this event where (we) get to hear not only the terrible need in our community for more housing and food support but also all the great work local agencies are doing to meet those needs and help people up,” the Wongs told The Niagara Independent. “It’s important to know what is going on in our community and be involved and this walk is a good way to start.”
The local event was also supported by some of Niagara’s elected officials, including Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati, who spoke to participants before the event.
“I just had the honour of delivering welcome remarks tonight at The Coldest Night of the Year! A family-friendly fundraising walk supporting local charities,” Diodati posted on social media. “Let’s change the tune for those experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness – because it’s cold out there.”
The event was also attended by members of the Niagara Falls City Council, including Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg and Mona Patel. Nieuwetseeg is also the Progressive Conservative candidate in the current Ontario election.
“Took part in Project Share’s Coldest Night of the Year last night at Saint Paul High School in Niagara Falls,” Nieuwesteeg stated. “The annual event helps raise funds for local charities working to alleviate hurt, hunger, and homelessness.”
Those interested in learning more about Coldest Night of the Year and Project SHARE can do so at the following links: Coldest Night of the Year, Project SHARE.
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
