Preparations underway for Coldest Night of the Year walk

Kentville is currently first in the country in terms of fundraising for the Coldest Night of the Year walk on Feb. 21.

Already, just over $17,000 has been raised for the Annapolis Valley events, with 37 teams and 155 walkers registered to participate.

Several local fundraisers are also in the top 50 in the country for raising the most money so far.

John Andrew of Open Arms said funds raised in the non-competitive five or 10kilometre winter walk will help Open Arms programs achieve sustainability.

Open Arms outreach includes drop-in centres in Kentville and Berwick, the Inn From the Cold winter shelter, Treasure House soup kitchens and housing assistance.

Last year, Andrew said, the funds helped purchase a permanent outreach centre on Cornwallis Street. Open Arms ended up in fourth place nationally, ahead of cities like Halifax and Ottawa.

This year, Open Arms is hosting its third annual Coldest Night of the Year walk in the Annapolis Valley. Andrew said the event allows participants the opportunity to experience a hint of the challenges faced by the homeless during a cold Canadian night in the dead of winter, while raising money for a local homeless mission or shelter.

Last year, with over 530 walkers, 64 teams, more than 200 volunteers and $79,000 raised, the second annual Annapolis Valley Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk was a huge success.

Nationally, the winter walk fundraiser supports Canadian charities that serve people who are hungry, homeless and hurting in cities across Canada. For more information on the Coldest Night of the Year walk, email CNOYannapolisvalley@outlook.com