The community is set to walk in support of those who’re hungry, homeless and hurting in Lloydminster with the Coldest Night of the Year walk.
The Lloydminster Men’s Shelter Executive Director Valerie Lazicki is excited to announce that this year’s event will split proceeds between operating costs for the shelter and a drop-in centre that opened up in November.
“We have been open for two months and we are seeing a lot of clients come in the door every day. We have phenomenal volunteer support there. Right off the get-go people were phoning and saying ‘how can I volunteer’? It’s been really phenomenal.”
The Lloydminster Social Action Coalition Society, that includes the Men’s Shelter and drop-in centre, looks to continue making an impact in the community through supporting those in need.
The Men’s Shelter’s fundraising goal is the same as last year at $20,000. After last year’s goal was surpassed by $2,000, Lazicki is confident that will happen again.
Lazicki says the CNOY walk raises awareness of the conditions those in need face during the harsh seasons.
“We appreciate people’s support all year round but the CNOY really gives us an opportunity to experience what a night outside in the middle of winter in this environment is like. It is quite a powerful experience.”
The CNOY will take place on February 22nd with participates able to walk up to 10 kilometres. Registration can be done by going to the Coldest Night of the Year website. Individuals can head to the walks registration at 4 p.m. on the day of the event and the walk will take place at 5 p.m.