The Salvation Army Caring Place is bundling up and hitting the pavement next month as part of the Coldest Night of the Year, a family-friendly winter fundraising event for Maple Ridge’s homeless, hungry and hurting.
The event will give participants a glimpse into what surviving on the streets during a cold Canadian winter looks like.
Coldest Night walks will be taking place on the same night in 40 cities from coast to coast.
The Maple Ridge walk begins and ends at The Salvation Army Caring Place, located at 22188 Lougheed Hwy., where walkers will register, turn in the results of their fundraising efforts, and return at the end of the evening for a warm chili meal.
Participants will choose a 5-km or 10-km route, and will warm up with toasty drinks at rest stops along the way. Donning iconic toques (a fundraising reward item), participants will be a visual representation of the desire of our community to help those in need.
Back for the second year, the Caring Place has set sights on raising $25,000.
“With goals of 20 team captains and upwards of 100 walkers, this goal is within reach,” said Stephanie Wanger with the Caring Place.
“Fundraising is well underway, and registration is now open for new participants to join.”
The Salvation Army Caring Place has been serving Maple Ridge for 20 years, and the boost in funds resulting from the Coldest Night of the Year will benefit their clients during a time of the year when donations take a dive.