REGINA — When winter bites hardest, Regina is being asked to step outside and stand with those who have nowhere else to go.
YWCA Regina is once again taking part in the Coldest Night of the Year, a national winter fundraising walk that supports people experiencing homelessness, hunger and housing insecurity in communities across Canada. The family-friendly event, which will take place Feb. 28, turns a cold-weather walk into a powerful act of solidarity, raising both awareness and critical funding.
“This is a two or five kilometre winter walk that brings people together to raise funds and awareness around homelessness, not just here in Regina, but right across the country,” explained Skylar Gerard, director of development and communications at YWCA Regina.
Funds raised locally will support Joan’s Place and My Aunt’s Place, two emergency shelters operated by YWCA Regina, which are among the only emergency shelters for women in southern Saskatchewan.
“They are incredibly high-demand and incredibly important,” Gerard emphasized. “These shelters are often the last safe option for women and families who have nowhere else to turn.”
The Regina walk will begin and end at YWCA Regina’s new centre at 2817 12th Avenue, marking the second year the event starts from the downtown location and loops through the city core. Beyond the walk itself, the event is designed to be welcoming and accessible.
“It’s a super fun, family-friendly event,” Gerard noted. “There are volunteer roles for everyone, youth, students, adults and families. We have people leading the walk, serving food, helping with registration, and we even have a kid zone with face painting.”
Participants are treated to a hot meal at the finish line, but the deeper takeaway is education.
“You also learn a lot about what’s happening in our city,” Gerard said. “Where the challenges are, where the demand is, and how people can step in and take action.”
The Coldest Night of the Year is now in its 11th year in Regina, supported by local businesses, organizations and hundreds of walkers. Last year’s event raised nearly $70,000, with around 300 participants braving the cold.
This year, the goal is ambitious.
“We’re aiming for $100,000,” Gerard said. “Every dollar goes directly to our emergency shelters.”
While the walk itself is in person, Gerard stressed there are still ways to get involved for those unable to attend.
“You can donate, create a team, or fundraise even if you can’t walk,” she said. “Anyone who fundraises or donates at least $150 also receives a Coldest Night of the Year toque, which is pretty great.”
The Coldest Night of the Year takes place in communities across Canada, supporting more than 150 local charities focused on homelessness and poverty. In Regina, its impact is felt directly by women and families seeking safety, warmth and stability.
“This is about community showing up,” Gerard said. “It’s educational, it’s meaningful, and it truly makes a difference for women and families in our city.”
