The Coldest Night of the Year has already topped its goal of $50,000 for its 2022 campaign.
With two days left to go before the event, Chatham-Kent residents have helped raise more than $58,000 for local charities serving those experiencing hunger and homelessness.
NeighbourLink Network Coordinator Alan Baker says it feels fantastic to exceed their fundraising goal.
"It's very gratifying to know that the community cares about the disadvantaged here at home and that they support NeighbourLink's efforts in helping those in need," said Baker.
Money raised will go towards supporting NeighbourLink Chatham-Kent’s various initiatives including providing food and vital transportation to local residents in need free of charge. Any additional money will help keep the charity in business.
"Though we are a registered charity, NeighbourLink still needs to pay rent, office and administrative expenses, insurance, and so on," said Baker.
A recent poll from Ipsos Reid suggests a quarter of Canadians could need charitable services to meet basic needs. The survey looked at the impact of rising inflation costs on charitable giving and found that 74 per cent of respondents were worried about price increases.
"There is a growing need for the work that NeighbourLink does for the needy," said Baker. "We provide free transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping and trips to the bank. We also deliver food provided by local food banks to those on assistance who can't afford to pay rent and buy enough groceries to get through the month."
According to the poll, roughly 11 per cent of people currently rely on charities, but a poll conducted for Canada Helps fundraising platform suggests that could balloon to 26 per cent.
"Soaring rental rates and inflationary grocery prices are affecting and hurting more and more people every day," said Baker. "I imagine NeighbourLink will be providing these services for a while."
On Saturday, February 26, walkers will meet outside the former St. Agnes School on Croydon Street in Chatham before hitting the streets to raise money for NeighbourLink.
