On Saturday, February 24th, Gravenhurst Against Poverty (G.A.P.) hosted their 6th annual Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) fundraising walk and are thrilled to share that it has been a record-breaking year for fundraising with over $175,000 raised – and counting. This was enough to see Gravenhurst place 11th in Canada out of 190 participating locations.
“We strive to be creative and innovative and to be responsive to the challenges faced by those in need in our local community. To do so, we rely heavily on the members of this community, and this community never disappoints!” – G.A.P. Chair, Beth Houston
More than 400 people turned out for the event which involved a 2km or 5km walk in the cold to raise awareness and funds for neighbours who are experiencing hurt, hunger, and/or homelessness in Gravenhurst and the surrounding area. That number is made up of 336 walkers, 65 volunteers, and 44 sponsors. The event drew donations from more than 1,721 individuals from across Canada –
including Yukon, British Columbia, Alberta, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland – and from around the globe with donations coming from Hawaii, Rio de Janeiro, Budapest, New York, Milwaukee, and Sunderland.
Funds raised through CNOY will go directly towards G.A.P.’s three pillars of service which include support for food, transportation, and wellness. Based in the lower level of Trinity United Church, G.A.P., a volunteer-run charitable organization, currently provides food for more than 700 neighbours each week through a variety of food programs.
“If you have not seen G.A.P. in action, contact the office at gravenhurstagainstpoverty@gmail.com and we will be happy to show you around. We always welcome more volunteers.” – Beth Houston
Donations can still be submitted until March 31st by visiting www.cnoy.org/gravenhurs
