Hundreds take steps to help end homelessness during second annual Coldest Night of the Year walk
By Brendan Quinn
Organizers said the second annual Coldest Night of the Year walk in Nelson Saturday evening was an amazing success, with more than 360 walkers participating.
The event, with aim to raise money for Room to Live campaign, is a renewal project for Ward Street Place. This year’s walk included more than 360 people, up from 317 in 2015.
“The evening went fantastic,” said Beth Seed, the event coordinator.
“[There were] 361 walkers out there, with 38 teams so we surpassed our goal by about 20 percent,” Seed said.
People of all ages, genders and species were out, including a few babies and dogs. The weather was chilly, but keeping in tune with the theme of event, which is geared towards helping people understand the conditions that Nelson’s homeless face during the winter season.
Nelson Mayor Deb Kozak was also on the scene, and was beaming with pride at the huge turnout and palpable community spirit present in the crowd.
“I think that it’s no secret that affordable housing, is at a premium here in Nelson. For the community to come out to walk, to raise money, to create more affordable spaces is a wonderful thing and I’m really happy to be here tonight. It’s an amazing crowd,” she said.
“It’s nice to see even more people out and the excitement is really something there’s a real buzz in the crowd and it’s really wonderful. “
The event raised nearly $36,000 in online donations, on top of the money received by participants who registered in person the evening of the event. Those who missed the walk but would still like to donate are able to get involved until March 18th.
