Hope and Light Urban Outreach has quickly become a steady presence of compassion in Cobourg.
Operating under the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada, the outreach was established locally in September 2024 and is led by Pastor and Mission Canada Urban Worker Leigh-Ann Davidson. The organization focuses on serving marginalized and vulnerable residents through its “Loaves of Love” food security program, a weekly street outreach serving more than 200 meals, and a “Creating Space” art workshop designed through the lens of art therapy and wellness.
Now in its second year hosting Coldest Night of the Year in Cobourg, Hope and Light is building on strong momentum.
That success has led to a new $30,000 goal for 2026.
Davidson tells us funds raised directly support food security efforts in the community.
Hope and Light currently partners with Transition House Shelter three days a week and supports individuals staying in motels and warming spaces, serving roughly 100 to 115 meals per day.
But Davidson says the outreach is about more than food.
This year’s Coldest Night of the Year walk begins February 28 at 4 p.m. at the Cobourg Memorial Temple, also known locally as the Odd Fellows building, with a pet-friendly walk hosted by Teresa Rickerby of All Creatures beginning at the store at 5 p.m. before returning to the Temple to join the main group for a light meal after the walk.
Organizers say the people they serve are approximately 60 percent seniors, 25 percent families, and 15 percent individuals, a reminder that vulnerability spans generations.
Community members can register at cnoy.org/cobourg and join a team or walk with the Hope and Light Crew.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)