It may be called the Coldest Night of the Year, but mild weekend temperatures had Lloydminster residents out in droves for the annual fundraising walk.
This year’s event not only saw a record number of walkers, it also saw the most money raised to date, bringing in $40,412. Funds from the walk support The Lloydminster Men’s Shelter’s search for a new home.
“I can’t believe our numbers this year. It’s the best result we’ve had so far,” said Kagan Kneen, organizer and men’s shelter executive director. “We had 121 registered walkers and we beat our $35,000 fundraising goal before we even started; that’s super exciting.”
“I’m impressed with the city, community sponsors and members of the community for stepping up,” he said.
When asked why he thought this year’s event saw more support than the past, Kneen explained it could be due to conversations around town.
“I think that’s a big thing. There’s a lot more visibility, not just in Lloydminster, but in every major city that has shelter facilities. It’s a tough time right now.”
Although Kneen was pleased with the weather, he did note he wished it was colder.
“I wanted it to be cold because the whole point of this is for people to experience what it’s like to be unhoused and not have a shelter facility available,” said Kneen.
“Standing here doing registration, I’m still chilled, so I can’t imagine what it’s like in -40 C.”
Kneen explained that finding a new home for the men’s shelter has been a challenge.
“We’re actively still looking for a new building,” he said. “We’re working with the city and other organizations to see where we can try to find that space that’s going to work for our clients as well as the community.”
Terrance Wagner and his team, Tiz the Seazin to be Freezin, are long-time supporters of the walk and raised $8,999.50 this year. The Cenovus employee and coldest night team captain explained the fundraiser is something everyone can get on board with.
“There’s a lot of donation matching from Cenovus employees and the Cenovus Cares Program,” said Wagner. “We’re Cenovus ambassadors here and Cenovus Cares matches our donations. When we make a personal donation, they match it.”
Wagner, who is also a member of the Knights of Columbus, explained that everyone should volunteer and give back to the community.
“The Knights like to do a lot for the men’s shelter. We’ve had brother Knights struggle over the years and they’ve been in respite care, using the shelter,” he said.
“There’s a lot of very positive stories coming from that background and that’s a strong initiative for us to support.”
Read more: Coldest Night of Year supports community need
