Tamitik Status of Women (TSW) is rallying the community to join its Coldest Night of the Year walk on Feb. 22, a family-friendly fundraising event aimed at supporting local initiatives tackling homelessness, hunger and poverty. Participants will brave the winter cold along 2 km and 5 km routes through downtown Kitimat, all while raising funds to support Tamitik’s critical programs.
“This event is about coming together as a community, not just to fundraise, but to understand the challenges faced by those who are homeless,” said Brittany King, TSW’s executive assistant. “We want to make this year’s walk a success after missing out in 2024 due to issues with our charity status.”
Fundraising for the event focuses heavily on individual efforts. “It’s about getting your five closest friends and asking them for $20 each,” King said. “That simplicity makes it accessible for everyone to contribute.”
Organizers are also seeking local business sponsorships. “Sponsorships aren’t just about the money—they’re about community involvement,” King said. “It’s local companies saying they care and want to support the people in this community. It fosters a sense of unity and purpose.”
The 2 km and 5 km routes will begin and end at Tamitik’s office at 606 Mountainview Square. The shorter route will loop back after Columbia Avenue, while the longer path winds past the soccer fields and local landmarks such as the Baptist Church. Maps will be distributed to ensure participants stay on track.
Tamitik aims to raise $50,000 through this year’s walk, with proceeds funding essential services such as its day shelter, extreme weather shelter, and food share program. “Our food share program is essentially a free grocery service for those who can’t afford it, and it operates entirely on donations. We’re seeing hundreds of families every day,” King said. “The demand is absolutely increasing."
The last Coldest Night of the Year walk in Kitimat took place in 2023, raising nearly $12,000 with the help of 165 donors, 61 walkers, and 17 volunteers. Organizers are aiming for even greater participation this year, including more volunteers to assist with registration, route marshalling, and setup.
King recalled the community impact of the 2023 event, where a client shared her personal story. “It was emotional and brought everyone together. It reminded us why we do this,” she said.
Those interested in volunteering can sign up at cnoy.org/volunteer. To register for the walk visit cnoy.org/location/kitimat. To become a sponsor the event, contact Brittany King directly at Brittany.K@tamitik.ca or call 250-632-8787.