Kincardine Coldest Night of the Year Walk raises more than $40,000

About 150 people joined in the fourth annual Coldest Night of the Year Walk, Saturday evening, at the Kincardine Legion, raising more than $40,000 in support of the Kincardine Good Food Box Neighbour-to-Neighbour Initiative, and the United Way of Bruce Grey

Teams gathered for photos inside a framed snow globe, while volunteers ensured everyone was signed up and ready to walk.

There were more than 150 walkers, 21 teams, and 20 volunteers at the event, and the funds raised were just over the $40,000 goal. The money is used to help individuals experiencing hardship, hunger, or homelessness. People are welcome to donate on-line, up to the end of March, at cnoy.org/location/kincardine.

Just prior to the walk Shirley Steele of the Kincardine Good Food Box, and Francesca Dobbyn, executive director of the United Way of Bruce Grey, welcomed everyone and thanked the participants, the organizers and volunteers for donating their time and money for the cause.

Christina Voisin of Bruce Power, a major sponsor of the event, thanked all the walkers for doing their part, and the United Way for hosting the walk. "You're walking for those who have no home or shelter, and for those who need food. Each step you take brings people closer to a place of safety."

Piper Andy Fraser of the Kincardine Scottish Pipe Band played the bagpipes as the walkers left the Legion and headed out on either a two-kilometre or five-kilometre route. Afterwards, they were invited back to the Legion for chili and hot chocolate.



Participants in the Coldest Night of the Year Walk leave the Kincardine Legion and head out on either a two-kilometre or five-kilometre route, Saturday evening



Holly McAdam (left) of the Kincardine Coldest Night of the Year committee, presents the leftover chili from that event, to Sharon Johnson and Kailey Kwan of Drop-in at The Bridge, Monday; photo by Mike Dupuis