These columns are written by staff from The Lighthouse to help the community better understand people experiencing homelessness and those who support them. This column appears every other Monday.
What an incredible experience Coldest Night of the Year was. On Saturday, Feb. 22, Orillia’s community showed up in full force, with more than 500 people walking through the cold to raise awareness and funds for those who are hurting, experiencing homelessness or facing food insecurity.
All funds raised go to The Lighthouse as, on any given night, we currently shelter up to 110 individuals who are experiencing homelessness through the emergency shelter, supportive housing and warming centre programs. These essential services ensure people in our community have access to the necessary resources to stay safe and warm and find hope.
While the Coldest Night of the Year event was a huge success, we still have a little way to go to reach our fundraising goal of $200,000. The good news? Donations are being accepted until March 31.
We’re almost there — help us cross the finish line
Thanks to the incredible generosity of participants, volunteers and donors, we have raised a significant amount already. While we haven’t quite reached our target yet, we are so close. We need your help to finish that final stretch.
The funds raised through this event are critical in supporting The Lighthouse’s many programs and services that help people in our community who are facing homelessness.
From shelter and meals to mental health support and housing assistance, The Lighthouse continues to be a lifeline for people who are experiencing homelessness. These critical services are only possible because of the generous contributions from people like you. Your support, no matter the amount, will help ensure The Lighthouse can continue its work. It takes a community.
You can donate online at cnoy.org/location/orillia. Every contribution helps us get closer to our goal. With your help, we can ensure The Lighthouse continues to provide hope and support to the most vulnerable members of our community.
A huge thank-you to our supporters
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who was part of Coldest Night of the Year. Whether you walked or sponsored someone to walk, you are making a difference. Your commitment has already made a huge impact, and we are so proud to be part of such a compassionate community.
Although the walk is behind us, the need for support doesn’t end here. The funds raised through Coldest Night of the Year are crucial to The Lighthouse’s ongoing efforts to serve those who are most vulnerable in Orillia. Let’s keep the momentum going by continuing to raise funds until March 31.
How can you help? Donate today at cnoy.org/location/orillia.
Together, we can reach our goal and continue supporting all members of our community.
Linda Goodall is the executive director at The Lighthouse and can be reached at [email protected].
Rosemary Petersen is the managing director at The Lighthouse and can be reached at [email protected].