How long could you last?
If it was the Coldest Night Of the Year (CNOY)?
That’s the dilemma on the minds of the volunteers participating in the CNOY event to raise money and awareness for issues around homelessness.
“Isn’t it amazing what we can achieve when we come together?” said Carrie-Anne DeCaprio, donor engagement and outreach manager for the Orangeville Food Bank.
“The Coldest Night of the Year, or as we affectionately call it, CNOY, is a testament to our collective power. It’s a fundraising event that sweeps across Canada and the US, uniting us in a common cause, all on the third Saturday of February. And would you believe it’s rarely the coldest night of the year? But that doesn’t stop us from warming hearts, does it? This nationwide effort is spearheaded by the good folks at Blue Sea Philanthropy. Together, we’re making a difference, one chilly night at a time.”
The Coldest Night of the Year is a winterific family friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities raising money and awareness for those experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness.
In Orangeville, the Coldest Night of The Year serves as the primary annual fundraiser for the Orangeville Food Bank. This event is scheduled for the third Saturday in February. For 2025, CNOY will occur on February 22, beginning at 4 p.m. The walk starts and at the Orangeville Food Bank.
The evening concludes with a delightful meal prepared by a chef, typically featuring chili, mac and cheese, desserts, hot chocolate, and coffee. Attendees can also enjoy fire pits, ice carving demonstrations, and various entertainment options throughout the night.
“It warms our hearts to know people are willing to put themselves out, even when it’s called the Coldest Night Of the Year, to help those in need,” said Heather Hayes, executive director of the Orangeville Food Bank.
Caledon participants can attend the Caledon East Community Complex at 4 p.m. on February 22, enjoy a gathering and opening remarks, as well as a light meal.
“In Caledon, more individuals and families are struggling than ever before making community support a vital part of meeting the growing need,” said CCS communications manager Donna Cragg.
“CNOY is an amazing and fun opportunity for individuals, families, colleagues, faith groups, first responders and more to gather together and walk to raise much needed funds ensuring CCS services including food support, help with heat, transportation and more are available year-round especially throughout the cold winter months.
We invite everyone to get involved by walking and raising funds, pledging for a participating team, friend or family or by becoming an event volunteer. So many ways that you can make a difference.”