It might feel like it’s already happened, but the official Coldest Night of the Year is this February 23rd.

The campaign, organized by Anti-Hunger Coalition Timmins (ACT), kicks off this evening with a fundraiser for the event in February, which will involve a 2km, 5km or 10km walk, followed by a meal. Tonight’s launch party for the campaign will be at Full Beard Brewing from 5-8 PM.

The Coldest Night of the Year is a campaign that raises awareness about the plight of the hungry, homeless and hurting withing our community. Funds raised from the local event go towards food security and services through ACT, which works towards providing programs that make fresh, healthy food more affordable and accessible for those who need it most.

The walk last year was the first time the event was held in Timmins, and it raised more than $36,000. The goal for this year’s campaign is $40,000.

Some of the community-based programs that this event helps fund include the Good Food Box program, which decreases transportation and economic barriers people face when trying to access healthy food. It also supports community gardens, and ACT’s collective cooking program.

“Coldest Night of the Year has become very key in sustaining our operations,” said ACT executive director, Jennifer Vachon, “and helping us continue to grow and provide these services in our community.”

People can take part by signing up to be part of a walking team. Right now, there are 14 teams and 68 walkers signed up. Last year a total of 23 teams sign up and 175 walkers took part. Campaign organizers are hoping walkers will come out this year to support the cause.

At the city council meeting on Tuesday, an old rivalry between Councillors made things a little interesting. Schumacher Councillor Joe Campbell suggested that if he raises more money that South Porcupine Councillor, Mickey Auger, Auger has to wear a Schumacher Bears jersey. Auger fired back by challenging Campbell to take part in the 2km walk.

The Launch Party for the Coldest Night of the Year is tonight at Full Beard Brewing from 5-8 PM.

You can learn more about Anti-Hunger Coalition Timmins here. 

 

 

–With files from Timmins Today

Filed under: Local News