With increasing food insecurity and homelessness that the pandemic has brought, Deltassist needs folks, more than ever, to participate and fundraise for their Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) event coming up on Feb. 26.
All money fundraised will support Deltassist’s emergency food programs, their community garden and senior service subsidies that help Delta seniors live independently and safely in their homes.
“This year, we’ve seen a huge increase in the number of homeless and even residents with homes needing our emergency food, counselling ... There is a huge number of seniors now, with the Baby Boomers getting older and needing more support so they can stay at home,” explains Lisa Pitman, Deltassist’s manager of community, seniors services and PQI.
This year, Deltassist is offering participants a virtual or in-person option to join them.
“It’s a little nerve-wracking because, last year, our numbers were down. We thought that had a lot to do with the fact that it was virtual only, because it’s just not as fun when you’re not out there, so, we’re hoping that [this year’s] numbers – now that we’re doing both – will increase,” says Pitman.
Saturday, Feb. 26, registered participants will have the choice between a two km or five km route that starts and ends at Ladner’s Cedar Park Church.
Or, if you’re participating virtually, you can choose your own route.
If you fundraise $150 or more, you will receive a CNOY toque (while supplies last) either on the day of the event if you’re participating in-person or ahead of time at the Deltassist offices on select days and times leading up to the event.
Check-in will begin at 4:30 p.m., which will be followed by opening remarks at 5 p.m. and then participants will head off on their routes at 5:15 p.m.
To register and for more details, visit https://cnoy.org/delta, where you can either join a team or start your own team with your friends and family.
And to stay connected on social media, use #deltacnoy22.
The Coldest Night of the Year is an annual, national fundraising walk event that supports local charity partners who provide essential care and service to those experiencing homelessness, hurt and hunger.
