WATCH: Thousands of the people across the country have taken to the streets to raise awareness and money to help the homeless. As Jill Bennett reports, this is the first time it’s been held in Vancouver.
The name may not fit as well as other places in Canada, but the message is the same.
Vancouver is taking part in the “Coldest Night of the Year Walk” for the first time today. Founded in 2011 in Ontario, the annual event has raised $4.9 million for organizations that work with the homeless.
READ MORE: Kelowna shelter closing early this winter due to lack of funding
“I’ve got to get people to wear toques,” jokes Carinne Dahlo, an organizer with First United Church, which is hosting the event in Vancouver.
“It’s going to be about 10 degrees out, but back east, there’s some places they’re considering postponement because there’s so much snow and ice.”
The walk started at First United at 5:15 p.m. People can choose to walk either two, five or ten kilometres.
We are very enthusiastic about this walk because it is an opportunity to be part of a collective effort to address the problem of homelessness,” said Executive Director Stephen Gray in a statement. “First United has been an important part of this neighbourhood for decades, and we know firsthand the powerful impact of this community joining together to combat adversity.”
Organizers nationwide are hoping to raise three million dollars, with forty thousand coming from Vancouver. To donate, click here.
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