Niagara Falls, ON — Project SHARE invites the Niagara Falls community to bundle up and join the 12th annual Meridian Credit Union Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk on Saturday, February 22, 2025. This family-friendly fundraising event raises awareness and essential funds to provide food, housing, and health support to neighbors in need.

The event begins and ends at St. Paul Catholic High School, where participants can choose a 2 km or 5 km route, enjoy warm drinks at rest stops, and celebrate together at the finish line. Walkers who raise $150 or more ($75 for youth) will receive the iconic CNOY toque as a token of appreciation.

“Our team at Stamford Lane United is excited to walk and fundraise for Project SHARE through the Coldest Night of the Year. This is our 6th year participating, and it’s a fantastic way to come together as a community to support our most vulnerable neighbors while having fun and getting some exercise,” said Alastair Davis, Team Captain. “I encourage others to register and fundraise to help ensure none of our neighbors go hungry.”

Last year, over $69,000 was raised during the walk, helping Project SHARE provide critical programs such as emergency food services, homelessness prevention, and seasonal support. This year, the goal is to raise $75,000—and beyond.

With more than 14,000 individuals supported in 2024, including 1 in 7 Niagara Falls residents, Project SHARE is calling on the community to come together again to help meet growing needs.

“Coldest Night of the Year is one of Project SHARE’s most vital fundraisers,” said Jenelle Gummesen, Fundraising Events Coordinator at Project SHARE. “While we’re deeply grateful for the generous support we received over the holidays, hunger doesn’t take a holiday. Fundraising efforts like this are crucial to ensuring we can provide support to our community throughout the year.”

How to Get Involved:

  • Register a team or as an individual walker: Gather friends, family, or coworkers and sign up at org/niagarafalls.
  • Donate to the cause: Support any of the local teams or individuals walking to make a difference.
  • Spread the word: Share the event with your network to help raise awareness and funds.

All funds raised through CNOY stay in Niagara Falls, directly benefiting those living below the poverty line in our community.