The Coldest Night of the Year is a non-competitive five and 10-km winter walk fundraiser supporting select charities that serve the hungry and homeless in communities across Canada. The evening walk in the dead of winter is a reminder of the challenges that homeless people experience.
On February 23, 2013, Kim MacKay, a REALTOR® with Sutton Group – Quantum Realty Inc., and three friends bundled up to raise money and awareness. Their team, called Maple Grove – Outreach, was the fifth highest fundraiser in Oakville. They raised $2,355 and helped to bring the Oakville total to $36,548. Nationally, 6,847 walkers raised $1,399,614.
“I was happily surprised that we ended up collecting over $2,000 by just asking our friends and family,” says Kim. “In Oakville, the proceeds of this walk go to Kerr Street Ministries (KSM), which provides free programs to adults and children, runs a daily after-school program and has a gym, a chapel and a large commercial kitchen with a dining area. Meals are often supplied and served by volunteers from various organizations. KSM also operates a food bank to help to support many families and individuals living in poverty in Oakville, who are dependent on donated food.”
“I have done a lot of volunteer work with the homeless and less fortunate and the work at KSM is wonderful. The Outreach committee at my church supports KSM. I truly believe in what they do and wanted to support them in any way I could.”
Kim joined a large group of walkers on a 5-km walk around downtown Oakville. This was her first time participating and wasn’t sure what to expect but notes that “it was a beautiful night and we enjoyed the walk very much! We had 225 participants plus a few dogs. I took my dog Kali along with us and she loved it too!”
The Coldest Night of the Year was piloted in Toronto and Kitchener/Waterloo by Blue Sea Philanthropy in 2011. The funds were disbursed to local partners such as Ray of Hope, Younge Street Mission, and others charities. In 2012, the walk expanded to 18 cities across Canada and raised $668,000. The number of communities doubled in 2013.
Pictured (left to right): Morar Murray-Hayes, Diane Hunt, Sue Anderson, and REALTOR® Kim MacKay.
This story was adapted – with permission – from one originally featured on the Sutton Spirit website. The Sutton Spirit program recognizes Sutton associates across Canada that improve and enhance the lives of the people around them.
