The Coldest Night of the Year fundraising team, Oh my Goderich, has made it into first place in all of Canada.
The team has raised over $26,306 dollars for the February 22 event that raises money and awareness for homelessness, hunger, and mental health support.
Goderich Mayor Trevor Bazinet is thrilled with his team's efforts so far, pointing out homelessness is more visible then ever in Goderich.
"I don't see it getting any better," Bazinet added. "I'm the mayor of the town of Goderich, and when I go to conferences and I talk to the ministers, I continue to advocate. And I think for myself, I just want to step it up. I want to keep it going with the avocation and having a better understanding and educating myself."
Bazinet plans to spend 12 hours outside overnight February 21, to help understand how difficult it can be to live outside.
"You know they're sleeping out in these cold elements, and I realize they do this like way more than 12 hours, but I think this is the start of something that we can generate a lot more awareness," Bazinet continued. "Hopefully, by us doing this, we can raise a lot more money, and that money will go towards the needs of people that are really in needs of housing. And you know, we are in a housing crisis right now."
He'll be joined by Councillor Randy Carroll. Bazinet also urged anyone who can to join them, even if it's just for a few hours.
"If they want to donate whatever dollar amount they want, it's greatly appreciated, and then it'll get us that much closer to helping the people that really need our help," Bazinet explained.
To donate, people can click here.
