Campbell Riverites raised over $55,000 (as of Sunday, Feb. 25) for the Coldest Night of the Year this year.
The annual event is the Campbell River and North Island Transition Society (CRNITS)’s biggest fundraiser, and funds go towards women and children in the area who are either at risk of homelessness or who are experiencing homelessness.
“We are walking through town on a two or five kilometre route of people’s choosing. They’re going to walk to create awareness and raise money for the Campbell River and North Island Transition Society,” said CRNITS public relations coordinator Diane Palmer.
According to the CNOY website, 191 walkers took part in the event, making up 31 teams. As of Sunday, Feb. 25, a total of $55,327 was raised, though Palmer said that they typically receive another 10 per cent the week after the event.
“I have never seen such a big crowd,” said CRNITS executive Director Laurie Hirsch. “I’m so happy to see all these people out in the community that care about us and care about the work we do to help vulnerable women and children who are at risk of abuse or fleeing violence.”
Campbell River councillor Susan Sinnott made a proclamation on behalf of Mayor Kermit Dahl and the rest of council that Feb. 24 was officially the Coldest Night of the Year, saying that “finding appropriate housing is extremely difficult for people battling poverty addiction and mental health issues,” and “we all have a role to play and ensuring that we recognize that having a phone was a human right and that homelessness affects the community as a whole.”
The top three teams this year were Naturally Pacific Resort, Rivercity Inclusioneers, and North Island College Campbell River and Friends. The top three walkers were Maddison Lemon, Julia Peters and Darlene Garat.
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