It's cold out there. Together with thousands of Canadians across the country, I'll be walking and fundraising to support people and families experiencing homelessness, hurt, and hunger. I will walk on February 22nd in the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) to help those without a home to call their own. In my city of Cambridge, funds raised in CNOY go towards Urban Hope, a group doing amazing work for the people who need help in the area.

This is my 7th year walking for Coldest Night of the Year, and I've taken a risk. I am setting my personal fundraising goal at $15,000 for Urban Hope. I have never set such a lofty target, but this cause is so important to the people in the community who use it I'm telling myself, nothing ventured, nothing gained!

In the years I have walked in the event, the volunteers, walkers, and community members have deeply impacted me. CNOY has changed my life by showing me the razor thin line between “have” and “have-not.” I feel immense gratitude for small things, like hot showers, food in the fridge, and a room with a bed to sleep in. Imagine fighting the battle to secure these necessities every day. The physical, mental, and spiritual toll is one that no person should have to face in Canada. We can solve these problems at the community level.

I have seen how Urban Hope changes lives. The services they provide are the doorway to a better life. Your personal contribution will make the difference for someone. Urban Hope provides the local community in need with a variety of free resources, including food, clothing, showers, laundry facilities, life skills, mentoring, and friendship. They hope to be able to offer services daily and connect those they meet with the right resources so those in need can become healthy individuals. Urban Hope wants to empower people to take an active role in the dreams they have for their lives, which is a co-operative principle of resilience and self-help.

I know there are many worthy causes to donate to, and you are often asked to give your hard-earned money. It takes a community to invest in the lives of the poorest in Canada. There is NO Obligation to donate, and I am grateful you’ve taken the time to read this letter. This is a personal campaign. As a registered charity, your donation of $20 or more will receive a tax receipt.