Eighty-five Meaford folks – families, couples, seniors, and even Scarecrows walked 2.5 kilometers, and 23 Meaford-area residents volunteered on Saturday, February 22 to raise funds for the most vulnerable in our community.
Together, with the major sponsorship of Bruce Power and in-kind sponsors: The Dam Pub, Jake’s Grab and Go, Godard’s Independent Grocer, The Kitchen, and Believers Coffee, a fund-raising walk was hosted from the Meaford Rotary House Thrift Shop. Kicked off by Dancing with Parkinson’s Louise Stewart Potts, and ending with soup, croissants, cookies and coffee, the whole event was a recognition of the socio-economic diversity that exists in our community. All warm soup and goodies left over were swiftly delivered to the very people the event was supporting, at United Way’s Safe and Sound house, and were immediately enjoyed.
“As of Monday morning, the Coldest Night of the Year raised $17,000 of a $20,000 goal to support Meaford Rotary Club and the United Way Bruce Grey initiatives. Funds are gratefully being requested until March 31. Only $2,928 is needed to reach our goal, ensuring more support dollars for those suffering from the difficulty of today’s survival. Donate by going to the CNOY.org website, clicking on Meaford and Donate. The Meaford Rotary Club funds will support Rotary House, where the Meaford Foodbank & Outreach is housed, affordable clothes sold, and a variety of free counsel and care is offered in the community Outreach Room. United Way Bruce Grey funds are devoted to Meaford with everything from Utility Support, Financial Literacy programs, to BackPacks, and (SOS) Supportive Outreach Services are offered,” said organizers.
“It’s been truly inspiring to see the community rally behind the Meaford Coldest Night of the Year walk. Your support not only brings warmth to those battling the cold but also provides much needed nourishment to the hungry and comfort to those struggling mentally. Every act of kindness makes a difference. We are aiming for a $20,000 goal and are only $2,928 away from reaching it. With donations accepted until March 31, we urge you to help us light the way for those in need. Your contribution can be the spark that transforms a life,” said Kristy Andre, Fundraising Champion, United Way Bruce Grey.
Organizers are already looking ahead to next year’s event.
“Please keep the caring showing – the Coldest Night of the Year is every night for some residents. Let’s include everyone in our community. Thank you to all involved in making our community whole. And mark your calendar for year three of CNOY 2026 on Saturday, February 28!” said Peggy McIntosh, Meaford Rotary House Outreach Lead, and CNOY Event Coodinator 2025.
Donate by going to the CNOY.org website, search ‘Meaford’ and click Donate; or contact Meaford Rotary House Outreach Lead Peggy McIntosh at pegshouse@gmail.com
