Coldest Night Of The Year
The annual Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) fundraiser for the Lighthouse is happening February 25.
The 2023 goal is $200,000. Since the registration period opened $60,000 has been pledged. It is a nation-wide event which has raised $57 million in 166 communities since 2011. In 2022 31,000 walkers raised $12 million and welcomed its first communities in the United States to the campaign. Orillia joined in 2012 and up to 2022 raised $500,000. Last year 547 walkers (with the help of 166 volunteers) raised more than $140,000.
It is one of the biggest participant attracting events in Orillia and to date there are 334 walkers from 72 teams singed up and 69 volunteers registered.
The walk is headquartered at Twin Lakes Secondary School and walkers can choose a 2 or 5 km. route. The Queen Street Lighthouse location is the half-time break point on the 5K route and both end back at Twin Lakes where there will be hot beverages and a hot meal. Participants who raise $150 or more ($75 if under 18) will get a CNOY toque. Those who unable to do the walk can still donate or sponsor a walker.
Funds raised will support the operation of the Lighthouse, which is a 30,000 sq. ft. facility with room for 40 men and women and a wing for 9 youths who need emergency shelter in one building, and a supportive housing building with 20 apartments designed for single and couples occupancies. They also serve lunch for up to 120 people each day and work with other agencies to provide mental health and addictions counselling, housing resources, and other supports those without housing.
(Photos by Deb Halbot/Supplied) Main: 2022 Coldest Night of the Year
