Start Me Up Niagara is excited to announce their 12th annual “Coldest Night of The Year” campaign, culminating in a heartwarming walk on Saturday, February 22nd, 2025 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 the community. The money raised by Start Me Up Niagara goes directly to help the cold and hungry in the Niagara community. People can make a difference by walking or donating to this import cause.
Meet the 2025 CNOY Walk Ambassador:
Start Me Up Niagara is proud to announce Danno O’Shea of My Son the Hurricane – touring drummer, label owner, dad, and the 2025 CNOY Walk Ambassador! Dan and Start Me Up Niagara’s Event Director Emily Fieguth are available for any press, print or radio interviews to discuss this year’s event.
The 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 is the public asked to participate?
- The Walk is a Family-Friendly event: Every year, participants are asked to join 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 them 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 them.
- 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 Start Me Up Niagara on Saturday, February 8th, 2025 at the Niagara IceDogs promotion game as they 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 them on February 8th at the Niagara IceDogs game and February 22nd at Market Square. Walk together to make a difference!
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:
Emily Fieguth (she/her)
Fundraising Coordinator / CNOY Event Director
Start Me Up Niagara
289-501-0263
efieguth@startmeupniagara.ca or cnoy@startmeupniagara.ca
Registered Charity 896011715 RR0001
