Annually, the Ray of Hope Community Centre hosts their Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk to raise funds and awareness for people experiencing homelessness, hurt and hunger.
CNOY walkers at the Waterloo Pharmacy rest stop
This year on February 25, 2023, the CNOY had 734 walkers and raised 99% of their goal - $219,168, almost reaching $225,000. Across Canada, the event surpassed its national goal and raised $12,831,070 in 182 locations.
Waterloo Pharmacy is proud to host a halfway rest spot at the School in the heart of downtown Kitchener for over a decade. Volunteers provide walkers participating in CNOY with a rest stop, warm beverages and snacks.
Pharmacy staff and student ambassadors connect with the community at this event, encouraging them to keep walking for this great cause. This friendly walk centers in on the hardships for those experiencing homelessness and poverty – shedding a light on the increased homeless in Kitchener.
Since 2011, CNOY has raised over $57,000,000 across 166 communities in Canada. 100% of the net proceeds support the local communities in which they were raised.
Waterloo Pharmacy will continue this tradition in the coming years to encourage community members to show compassion and support to members of the community who are affected by these complex issues.