This was the second time that Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver has run the Coldest Night of The Year event in North Vancouver. But unlike the previous year, there was no snow this time (though we did have to content with some light rain).

On Saturday, February 24th, over 150 enthusiastic walkers and volunteers took to the streets of Lower Lonsdale, showing their support for the work we are doing to create more affordable housing options in the Lower Mainland. Thanks to the support we received, we raised over $35,000, with donations continuing to roll in post-event. We are incredibly grateful for the support we've received from our lead sponsor Neptune Terminals, whose generosity helped make this event a success.

“We were so excited to take the route through the heart of Lonsdale this year,” says Jonathan Fehr, the event director and resident of North Vancouver since 2018. “We had the opportunity to gather in a busy section of the city and to come together in support of those facing housing insecurity.”

Along the way, our walkers were treated to rest stops sponsored by Anthem and Three Shores Development. Incredible volunteers from those organizations came together to provide much-needed refreshments and a chance to recharge.

We were also fortunate to have the support of BC Housing, who sponsored walks across the province with grants. Additionally, we had three incredible route sponsors: 1 Degree Planning, Mercury Transport, TD Bank, and Jet Pet Resort North Shore. Devon Owen Personal Real Estate Corporation came on as a community sponsor. The support of these organizations has been instrumental in helping us further our mission of providing affordable housing for all.

Delicious soup was provided to everyone by Eighties Restaurant, and there was nothing but praise for the cook. We also had coffee donated by Starbucks and timbits and hot chocolate donated by Tim Hortons.

“I need to take a moment to highlight that our volunteers for the day were truly incredible,” says Fehr. “Many of them arrived early to help with setup. The event would not have run smoothly without their support in during the walk and through assisting with tear-down. We are grateful for their dedication and hard work!”

Fehr also gave a special shoutout to all the fundraising teams and individual fundraisers who went above and beyond to raise funds for affordable housing.

“Your efforts have made a real difference in the lives of families in the Greater Vancouver area,” he says.

Did you miss this year's event or not hit your fundraising goal? Donations are still being accepted until March 31st. Visit https://cnoy.org/location/northvancouver and select your walker/team to support or choose our official team, Habitat Hardhomes, to help us increase our impact. Every dollar counts, and your support means the world to us.

More pictures of the day are also available on the event page, so head over there and take a look at the activities of the day.

Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver is gearing up for another exciting event in North Vancouver – the Coldest Night of The Year, taking place on Feb 24, 2024. Events like this wouldn’t be possible without the heartfelt support of dedicated volunteers, people like Denise, a proud Habitat Partner Family who has been touched by the transformative power of Habitat's mission.

“I heard about the Coldest Night of The Year through Habitat,” says Denise. “I decided to volunteer to put in my volunteer hours as I was one of the lucky ones to be chosen to have a townhouse built by Habitat.”

Becoming a Partner Family

Denise's journey with Habitat began when she found herself living in substandard housing with her children. The organization provided her with an opportunity to move into a safe, new townhouse through the Habitat housing program.

“I heard of the Habitat through the Aboriginal liaison at my son's school. They had sent an email to all the Aboriginal & Metis families, and I filled out the application and sent it in,” explains Denise.

However, the journey from application to acceptance was not without its moments of anticipation and longing. "I would drive by and manifest that I was living there. I was actually a bit obsessed. I just wanted to live in my place so bad and wanted to have neighbors that were also moving forward and have a community that looks after one another.”

When Denise was notified that she was accepted and could move in July 1, she was completely overjoyed.

Reflecting on the broader impact of Habitat for Humanity, Denise emphasizes the crucial role the organization plays in times of housing instability. "Habitat, for me, means a lifting hand, especially in these times where the housing market is wildly out of control, whether it is buying or even just renting."

Volunteering at Coldest Night

When Denise heard that Habitat was organizing their 2nd annual Coldest Night of the Year event, she signed up right away. Thanks to volunteers like her, Habitat was able to host 125 walkers and raise over $36,000. Denise's positive experience last year has motivated her to volunteer again this year.

“I volunteered to help because I am a people person—the more, the merrier—and thought this event is right up my alley,” says Denise. “I liked it so much that I want to volunteer this year, not because I need any more hours, but because I want to give back and because it was such a great group of people putting it together.”

Through events like the Coldest Night of The Year, Habitat not only raises crucial funds but also fosters a sense of community and togetherness. As the event approaches, the Greater Vancouver community is invited to come out and volunteer, just like Denise, and help build a brighter future for families in need. We’re also looking for people to walk in the event and/or donate to the cause.

Join us on Feb 24: https://cnoy.org/location/northvancouver