This year’s Coldest Night of the Year walk brought together residents from across Northumberland County and raised more than $65,000 to support Green Wood Coalition’s programs serving people in Port Hope, Cobourg and across the region.
Held February 28, the annual fundraiser featured a refreshed route, strong community partnerships and support from walkers, volunteers and local businesses determined to make a difference.
Event Community Engagement Coordinator Kim Jaye says people came from across the region to take part.
Support as came from St. Mary Catholic Secondary School, Port Hope High School, The Pulse Café, the Port Hope Chamber of Commerce and many local sponsors and volunteers.
But organizers say the real impact comes after the walk is over.
Community Program Coordinator Aimee Johnston says the goal is building belonging across the community.
Johnston says that includes meals, yoga and art programs designed to bring people together.
Johnston says the funds help maintain low-barrier programs including Monday community breakfasts in Port Hope, free yoga through the Whole and Well program, art drop-ins and gardening groups.
In Cobourg, Green Wood Coalition also runs Monday night drop-ins, Friday community breakfasts at Calvary Baptist Church, Art Wellness in partnership with CMHA and Red Path Recovery programming.
She says the goal is to create spaces where people living on the margins can connect side by side with others in the community, helping reduce isolation and build relationships.
Green Wood Coalition’s next fundraiser takes place June 11 at The Mill in Cobourg featuring Garage Dog, while next year’s Coldest Night of the Year walk is already scheduled for February 27, 2027.
To learn more about Green Wood, including volunteer opportunities, visit them on the web at: Home | Green Wood Coalition
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
