The stakes are high as the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter is moving forward on building a new shelter for its clients and Saturday’s Coldest Night Of The Year event comprises part of the seed money.
The soon-to-be-released city survey on housing needs has revealed about 193 people are experiencing some form of housing insecurity, says Michael Davison, with the Men’s Shelter.
“In our current facility we are only equipped to handle less than 30 at any given time and there’s obviously a big gap between what the requirements and the needs of the city are in terms of support and what we can provide.”
Davison adds there are other organizations in the community doing similar work, but notes the extra demand for the services that the Men’s Shelter provides.
Coldest Night Of The Year fundraiser is being held on Saturday, Feb. 24 at Bud Miller Park. Currently, the Men’s Shelter has raised $18,640 towards its $20,000 goal. There are 50 registered walkers and nine teams. People can come as individuals to provide support or register to walk, fundraise, or volunteer.
“The initial amount of money is about making sure that every step we take is the right step and will lead to a larger success for our organization and all of Lloydminster,” says Davison.
Participants will walk and can reflect on the challenges facing the unhoused, especially in sub-zero temperatures.
Check-in for the event begins at 4:00 p.m. at the PSM Park Centre building in Bud Miller Park. The walk goes from 5:00-6:00 p.m. and ends with a hot meal.
Participants are encouraged to pre-register, but organizers will register up to the start.
“It’s a walk around Bud Miller. We will all be there to answer questions. There will be some food and drink and just people out to support the charity.”
The weather forecast for Saturday indicates sunny conditions with a daytime high of minus one.
