Nanaimo Community Gears Up for Coldest Night Walk to Support Homelessness

The Coldest Night of the Year walk in Nanaimo is set to raise both funds and awareness for the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness. Scheduled for February 28, 2026, the event will commence at John Barsby Secondary School on Seventh Street, marking the 15th anniversary of the initiative in the city.

Jennifer Short, the development and communications manager for the Island Crisis Care Society, expressed excitement for this milestone year. Participants can choose between a 2-kilometre or a 5-kilometre route, with a fundraising goal of $125,000 for the Nanaimo chapter. “All the money raised goes into our community impact fund,” Short stated, emphasizing the importance of local support.

Flexible Support for Those in Need

The community impact fund allows the society to address immediate needs such as utility bills, work-related expenses, and transportation costs. Short explained, “We are really fortunate to receive funding from B.C. Housing and Island Health, but these sources often have limitations that do not fully support all client needs.” The Coldest Night initiative helps bridge those gaps.

The event is part of a nationwide initiative that has expanded to the United States. Importantly, all funds raised remain within the local community. While participation is encouraged, donations are not mandatory. Many participants choose to form teams or seek sponsorship to enhance their fundraising efforts.

Individuals who prefer not to walk can still contribute by attending the event and bringing their donations. The walk welcomes participants of all ages, and incentives are offered: adults who raise over $150 and youth under 18 who raise more than $75 will receive a Coldest Night toque. Additionally, the first 300 donors across Canada who raise $500 will receive a Coldest Night hoodie, with Nanaimo set to distribute nine of these items this year.

Event Details and Impact

As of February 11, Nanaimo has already raised $54,000 towards the $125,000 goal, with 412 participants joining the previous year’s walk. Registration begins at 16:00, with the walk starting at 17:00 and concluding by 19:00. After the walk, participants will enjoy chili and buns, simulating a warm meal experience that many in the community may not have access to.

Short emphasized the importance of the Coldest Night event, stating, “It’s a key fundraiser for us to continue our work. Everyone’s journey is so different, and we don’t know what challenges someone may face from one day to the next.”

To join the walk or make a donation, interested individuals can visit the Island Crisis Care Society’s website at www.islandcrisiscaresociety.ca.