Galt RRT Helps at the Cambridge Coldest Night of the Year
On Saturday, February 25, 2017, the Galt RRT members were privileged to assist in the Cambridge “Coldest Night of the Year”. This is a family-friendly walk that is held annually to raise funds and awareness for the less fortunate citizens.
This year they went beyond their goal and raised over $4,000,000 in funds for the hungry, homeless, and hurting in many locations across Canada. The walk started and ended at the Exhibition Park in Cambridge, Canada
Each participant was charged a $25 registration fee that was waived if an adult was able to raise $150 or was also waived for any youth that was able to raise $75. This walk offered participants three different route options of a 2, 5, or 10k distance. It is Strategically held on a cold day to give the individuals participating an idea of what it would feel like to be homeless especially in the harsh winter months. These events have raised over $12 million since 2011.
RRT helped with the registration of the 150 participants, assisted team members, and acted as route marshals. The walk started at 4:00 p.m. with registration and opening ceremonies. The routes closed at 8:00 p.m. All participants and volunteers were invited back to the Urban Hope Center located in the basement of the Cambridge Vineyard Church for a warm meal that was served between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. RRT volunteers continued their assistance by helping serve the meal and desserts that was donated by a local grocer, and clearing up after the meal. RRT was very thankful be included in such a great purpose and to work alongside and assist these agencies who support men, women and children within their community who are struggling with poverty and homelessness. One local walk organizer said the need is great and growing greater. More people are coming in and more people are coming back for other services. A local agency said they serve around 800 meals in their twice weekly program.
