With the country bracing itself as the temperature drops, Sources Foundation (SOURCES) is getting ready for the fifth annual Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser in support of their Homelessness Prevention Services & Rent Bank. Having exceeded expectations and ranking one of the top cities in the 2017 WALK, the local non-profit has set ambitious goals for this year’s White Rock event.
“We are determined to raise $100,000 and recruit at least 300 participants this year – civic engagement is key in ensuring a successful Coldest Night of the Year,” said SOURCES Event Director, Abby Gemino. “It’s a fun family event that has a social impact.”
Walkers at Coldest Night of the Year 2017
Coldest Night of the Year, a 2, 5 and 10 km winter walk, takes place on February 24 this year. The event, known as Canada’s national walk for homelessness, happens in more than 120 communities across the country on the same day. It gives participants a glimpse into the challenges faced by homeless people during cold Canadian nights in the dead of winter, as well as raises money to help these people. Sources Rent Bank is self-funded through donations generated through Coldest Night of the Year.
“Sources Homelessness Prevention Services & Rent Bank gives families living on a low income and at risk of homelessness the opportunity to achieve housing stability,” said Gemino. “The WALK plays a significant role in sustaining this service.”
Participants Snapchatting at Coldest Night of the Year 2017
This year’s event will start at 3 p.m. – an hour earlier than previous years – so most participants can complete the WALK before sundown and to make it easier for families with young ones to participate.
The WALK will begin at Sources Peace Arch Resource Centre (882 Maple St., White Rock) and travel along the scenic promenade and pier. Sponsored coffee, tea, hot chocolate, hot dogs, chili and other treats will be served at the start, at rest stops and at the finish line. The two lead sponsors for this year’s White Rock WALK are Elkay Developments and HomeLife Benchmark Realty White Rock.
With five weeks to go, another $83,733 needs to be raised. SOURCES is inviting community members to participate in this year’s WALK. For more information about the event, click on the “Register” button below, and to keep up to date with the latest news, click on on the “Facebook Event Page” button!