An annual fundraiser to support those in need returns to Chatham later this month.
The Coldest Night of the Year walk in support of Neighbourlink Chatham-Kent will take place on Saturday, February 25.
"It's our annual fundraiser at Neighbourlink," said Al Baker, managing director of Neighbourlink Chatham-Kent. "We don't get any regular government funding, so we depend largely on this to keep the lights on, to pay the rent, that sort of thing."
Baker said they are aiming to raise $60,000 this year.
"I think that's a reasonable goal, that was our goal last year and we far exceeded it. I don't want to be jumping the gun, but the good news is we're tracking this year with the same time last year. So that's good news."
At last check, they had already raised over 55 per cent of that goal. Baker adds that all of the money raised stays in the community and goes towards their numerous programs.
"We provide free transportation for those in need if they need to get to a doctor, or the grocery store, or the bank, or something like that," he said. "The other thing is food insecurity, that's a big issue these days with high rental rates and high grocery prices. So if people are in need, we will make sure they get some food."
Walkers will leave from the former St. Agnes Catholic school on Croydon Street in Chatham on either a 5km or 2km route. Registration opens at 4 p.m. and the walk will get underway around 4:45 p.m. There will be chili and strew dinner afterwards at 6 p.m..
You can also register online but do the walk virtually if you are unable to make the event on February 25.
For more information on the Coldest Night of the Year, and to register, visit https://cnoy.org/location/chathamkent.