NEWS RELEASE
START ME UP NIAGARA
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Start Me Up Niagara is excited to announce our 12th annual Coldest Night of The Year (CNOY) campaign, culminating in a heartwarming walk on Feb. 22 at Market Square, St. Catharines. This family-friendly event is a fundraising walk that raises critical funds to support individuals facing homelessness and hardship in our community. We know people can feel powerless to help those they see on the streets everyday. The money raised by Start Me Up Niagara goes directly to help the cold and hungry in THIS community. We want people to know they CAN make a difference by walking or donating to this important cause.
Meet Our 2025 CNOY Walk Ambassador: We are proud to announce Danno O'Shea of My Son the Hurricane – touring drummer, label owner, dad, and the 2025 CNOY Walk Ambassador! O'Shea and our event director Emily Fieguth are available for any press, print or radio interviews to discuss this year’s event.
Our Event
The Coldest Night of The Year is more than just a walk; it's a chance to walk in solidarity with those experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness during the harsh winter months. Every step you take helps create a safe and welcoming space for individuals facing physical, emotional, or mental pain (hurting), struggling with food insecurity and poverty (hungry) and lack of stable affordable housing (homelessness).
Participation directly helps Start Me Up Niagara provide crucial services and programs, including:
- Access to medical supports
- Food security programs including “From Our Garden” program
- Resource Centre
- Bike Me Up program
- Niagara’s Mobile Closet
Why we are asking the public to participate?
- The Walk is a Family-Friendly event: Every year we ask our participants to join us in a memorable experience with friends, family or coworkers while supporting a vital cause.
- Support Local: All funds raised directly benefit Start Me Up Niagara, allowing us to continue our essential work in the community.
- Community Unity: The CNOY walk helps to connect with those who share their desire to help people in need, and build a stronger sense of community.
How to Get Involved:
- Form a Team: Gather friends, family, or colleagues and register to walk and raise funds.
- Walk Solo: Sign up as an individual walker or join the SMUN STARTERS, Niagara Ice Dogs or My Son the Hurricane teams and walk along with us.
- Donate: For those that can't walk? Make a difference by donating.
It’s all available at https://cnoy.org/location/stcatharines
Kick-Off Event at the Niagara IceDogs Game!
Join us on Feb. 8 at the Niagara IceDogs promotion game as we raise awareness for the Coldest Night of The Year campaign. Don't forget your loose change for the pass-the-bucket fundraiser and the exciting Puck Toss with prizes for children and adults! Use discount code CNOTY to get tickets to the almost sold out game.
About Start Me Up Niagara:
Start Me Up Niagara is a local charity dedicated to helping individuals facing challenges like homelessness, poverty, and mental health difficulties. The Coldest Night of The Year campaign is a critical initiative in supporting their mission.
Join us on Feb. 8 at the Niagara IceDogs game and Feb. 22 at Market Square. Let's walk together to make a difference!
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