Local organizations are gearing up for the annual Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walks in February.
The national event brings attention to homelessness by organizing walks on Feb. 22, six of which will be happening in the region.
People can participate in the long-running Safe N Sound Owen Sound walk, the Bruce Grey Mentorship Hanover walk, and the United Way of Bruce Grey walks in Saugeen Shores, Kincardine, Grey Highlands, and Meaford.
United Way Fundraising Champion Kristy Andre says they aim to raise a total of $120,000 from their walks.
“Overall, our goal is just for people to get signed up, come out and have a good night, and also raise awareness about people struggling in our communities,” says Andre.
She says the funds raised will go to support the Untied Way’s various programs, including utility support and the backpack program.
“The need is growing for our programs and these funds are definitely needed during this time,” says Andre.
The United Way is also partnering with local organizations once again, which receive a portion of the funds raised. The organizations include the Southampton Rotary Club, the Good Food Box in Kincardine, the South East Grey Community Health Centre, and the Meaford Rotary Club.
Participants can walk two or five kilometres either by themselves or as part of a team.
“It’s a good opportunity for service groups, for businesses, for families, for schools just to put a team in and come together and be together and do this for a really good cause,” says Andre. “Even if you are raising five dollars, we want you to come out and see what this event is all about and be a part of it, because it is a really good event.”
People interested in registering can visit the CNOY website here.