Volunteers needed for Coldest Night of the Year

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

Volunteers are still needed for the Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser to be held on Feb. 22.

Kelly Gilson, executive director for United Way Oxford, said help is needed for route marshal positions. These are people who will be outside along the route during the event.

“Those are really the cheerleaders along the route to cheer them on and to ensure people are following the route,” she said.

Participants in the fundraising walk can choose to either walk the two kilometre or five-kilometre version of the route. Gilson noted most pick the longer route, and said the marshals also ensure everything is okay with the participants.

“We want to ensure everyone is safe and well along the route,” she said.

Most of the volunteers are returning from last year, and are covering the inside positions. Besides route marshals, help may also be needed to direct parking. Gilson said outside volunteers will be facing the elements for about 90 minutes.

“Those volunteering outside need to dress warm and we provide to ques,” she said.

Coldest Night of the Year toques are a hot commodity. Any participants raising more than $150 will receive this year’s toques. The design changes each year and outdoor volunteers receive last year’s toques.

Participants can still register, and donations are still being accepted, both through the web site at www.cnoy.org

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.

Last year was the inaugural Coldest Night of the Year, which involved 122 walkers on 23 teams and raised $42,844.

“It’s an opportunity for people in the Tillsonburg community to come together and help those in need,” Gilson said. “We know safe affordable housing is the answer and Light House provides that.”