The Crowsnest Pass Food Bank is hosting its first Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk in Blairmore this Saturday.

Coldest Night of the Year is an annual walk held in 166 communities nationwide to raise money for local charities that support people experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness.

In Crowsnest Pass, the event will help the food bank cover the costs of food and its transportation over the course of the year. 

The walk starts and ends at the Elks Hall at 2025 129th St. in Blairmore. Check-in opens at 4 p.m., and participants start their walks at 5 p.m.

Participants can choose between two-kilometre and five-kilometre routes, with both including rest stops along the way.

The fundraising goal was initially set at $20,000. However, with a couple of days still to go before the event, the food bank had already seen that amount almost doubled at $37,730, raised with the help of 649 donors, 18 sponsors, 20 teams and 78 walkers.

“The Crowsnest Pass always comes together to support one another and this situation is no exception,” says Desiree Erdmann, manager of the food bank.. 

“CNOY has created a great community vibe and is the perfect example of how many people contributing a little can add up to a lot.” 

Desiree says food intake at the food bank has gone up 34 per cent in the last year. The money will go a long way in helping the organization continue to assist its community.

If the food bank manages to double its original goal and hit $40,000 raised, it will be enough money to cover grocery costs for about a third of the year.

“I felt confident we would reach our goal, as our community is so supportive,” Desiree says. “The amount raised so far is astonishing.”

Crowsnest Pass Food Bank has been supporting locals struggling with food insecurity for over 25 years, serving individuals and families within all areas of the municipality. 

If you wish to make a donation, register to walk or learn more about the CNOY, you can get info here.  

The food bank encourages walkers, volunteers and community members to take pictures of the event and share them by email.