Our Place Society is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to aiding Victoria’s unhoused and at-risk population and they are hosting a fundraiser event next week.
The Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser walkathon is an annual event in which Our Place Society raises money to better help those they provide care and shelter for.
“Sadly, we are continuing to see more people falling through the cracks and spending their nights on cold, damp streets,” says Julian Daly, Executive Director at Our Place.
“And the community is asking what they can do to help. This walkathon is one of those ways.”
This is a family-friendly event which is designed and planned to offer people the opportunity to feel what it might be like—even just for a few hours—to be sleeping rough on the streets of Victoria.
“On the coldest nights, we try to get as many people indoors as possible,” said Daly.
“But, unfortunately, there are still people left outside. This walk allows the community to come together and show how much they care about some of the most vulnerable members of society.”
There will actually be two walks taking place simultaneously, one in downtown Victoria and one in the Westshore.
Our Place Society says that last year over 800 people came out to do the walk and raised more than $175,000.
The organization is hoping for those who are interested in taking part to bring family and friends along with them.
This walkathon fundraiser is being held on Saturday, February 24th and registration is available online.
In addition to this event, Our Place Society will be present at the Victoria Royals game at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre on Wednesday, February 21st for the annual ‘touque toss’ event.
There people can donate by buying a toque to toss on the ice for those who may need a new cap to stay warm in the cold weather.
Coldest Night of the Year walkathon fundraiser
- When: Saturday, February 24th
- Where:
- Downtown walk: 1027 Pandora Avenue
- Westshore walk: 1089 Langford Parkway
