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Nottawasaga OPP joins S.H.I.F.T for Coldest Night of the Year walk

March 9, 2023   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The event lived up to its name.

The Coldest Night of the Year walk did have a frosty start with temperatures below zero when people gathered for a walk through the streets of Alliston in support of Support and Hope for Individuals and Families Today (S.H.I.F.T).

The walk took place on Saturday, Feb. 25.

The event takes place at towns and cities across Canada to raise money for organizations that serve people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness.

Together, the national walks have raised over $56,000,000 in 166 communities across Canada since it began in 2011.

People could join the walk individually or create a group to participate in the event. There were two routes that covered 2 km, or 5 km, through the town.

Members of the Nottawasaga Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police participated in the walk this year in support of S.H.I.F.T – one of their community partners.

The Police volunteer team gathered to register, then started out from the Alliston Memorial Arena on Nelson Street.

S.H.I.F.T. is currently in its sixth operating season. It provides safe, respectful, and welcoming overnight accommodation, meals, and support to those experiencing homelessness or at risk of experiencing homelessness or food insecurity in South Simcoe.

They also provide access to basic needs, harm reduction supplies, hygiene supplies, food items, and connections to local services. This year, they have set a goal of raising $200,000 to help fund programs.

S.H.I.F.T recently relocated to a temporary location at The Door Youth Centre in Alliston and is searching for a new permanent home. The idea of the Coldest Night of the Year walk is to remind people what it is like to be outdoors on a cold winter night for someone who has no place to go.

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