Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser deemed a success

The Systemair team paused for a team photo before hitting the streets. (Jeff Helsdon Photo)

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

The Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser didn’t quite meet its goal, but still saw a huge increase from last year.

Held Feb. 22, the event involves teams and individuals finding sponsors for the walk to raise money for Tillsonburg Lighthouse. Proceeds from the event will fund Tillsonburg Light House, a transitional house in Tillsonburg. Up to seven people can stay at Light House while putting their lives back together. The program supported 22 people last year, who were able to get the support they needed, and move forward with their lives.

United Way of Oxford executive director Kelly Gilson called the event a success, noting there were 430 donors, 25 teams and more than $49,000, or 81 per cent of the goal of $60,000 raised. This translated into an increase in the number of sponsors, teams, walkers and donors.

“It really shows the people who participated last year felt connect and they’re back in spades this year,” she said.

Last year, which was the initial year, brought in $33,000. At that point, the United Way had already purchased the house, but it had not opened yet. Operational costs for it are $160,000 per year to cover utilities, insurance, food and staff.

“That made a big difference to meet the needs of the tenants,” she said.

Interviewed after the official opening, Gilson built on remarks by Mayor Deb Gilvesy that a shelter is important for one night, but transitional housing is important to make a long-term difference.

“It is what helps lift people back on their feet to move forward to a better future,” Gilson said.

The night was also a win for local Kinettes Club members. Their team, the Kin Krusaders, was the top fundraising team locally but also won a challenge amongst other Kinette teams, raising $11,731.