It's cold out there.
And it's a typical day here.. as usual, sweet little Issac sits in our cozy kitchen and eats up his healthy breakfast, snug in his freshly washed PJs. His tusselled head smells a little like shampoo from last night's bath, and his eyes sparkle.
Soon he is bundled up warm to head to school to play with his friends. His only worry is which mittens to wear today - the deciding factor is if "hey google" tells him the temperature is "minus".
The truth is that this morning thousands of little boys and girls just like Issac woke up cold and hungry. Again. Little children. Just. Like. Issac.
And no, they do not have a "google" to tell them if it's cold out there. They know. Oh, they know.
This contrast of what is, and what could be, does not escape me - it's profound and real.
So today my friends, I ask that you help in whatever way you can towards my walk on the Coldest Night of the Year. Along with tens of thousands of Canadians, Issac and I will step outside the warmth and comfort of home and shine a light of welcome and inclusion.
http://walk.w-ith.me/shareyourwarmth
Together, we're collecting donations that fund critical services initiated by Shuswap Food Action Society, a local charity partner who serves and supports vulnerable families and individuals in our community.
We walk through the cold and dark on February 25, 2023 to declare our concern for people who have no home, and take shelter in nooks and crannies.
We walk for those whose days are a battle to house and feed their families, and whose nights are filled with fear and frustration.
We walk for those driven from home by violence and abuse. And we walk for people overwhelmed by isolation, guilt and despair.
We walk humbly, realizing that anyone can lose their footing and then lose everything else.
Each step we take brings someone closer to safety, health and home, as together, we raise funds for organizations whose commitment and work transforms peoples’ lives.
http://walk.w-ith.me/shareyourwarmth
And on February 25, I'm going to do something about it. Together with thousands of Canadians across the country, I'll be walking and fundraising to support people and families experiencing homelessness, hurt, and hunger in my community.
Please, give generously by clicking the "Donate Now" button above. Thanks!