Two local charitable organizations were just shy of reaching their fundraising goals through Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY).
Walks were held on February 24 as part of a nation-wide campaign that benefits charities and allows people to gain a better understanding of what it's like to be out in the cold.
Saturday evening's forecast called for gusty winds with a low of -6 Celsius.
Those who signed up to support River City Vineyard (RCV) walked along Mitton Street North while Habitat for Humanity Sarnia-Lambton participants strolled along Sarnia Bay.
RCV raised $33,004, which was 73 per cent of the $45,000 target.
Worship Pastor Renee Card said the CNOY website will remain open until the end of March so more donations may trickle in over the next month. However, they're still happy with the outcome and Card said the community support was "incredible".
"There was a lot of positivity, lots of good spirits, and lots of warm food when everybody got back," she said.
Money raised will support the ongoing operational costs of RCV's shelter.
"The exciting part of this year was that we were able to bring all of the walkers through the completed shelter expansion and that's what we've been fundraising for, for the past three years," Card said.
"The feedback was very positive, bringing people through so that was very encouraging."
The shelter expansion was completed in late 2023. Card said generally two to eight women stay per night and the men's side is almost at capacity.
Meanwhile, Habitat for Humanity Sarnia-Lambton raised $52,921, which was 81 per cent of its $65,000 goal.
