On February 28, 2026, YWCA Niagara Region — backed by the Rotary Club of Grimsby — will hold the Coldest Night of the Year walk in Grimsby, Ontario. This annual fundraiser helps support local people and families who are experiencing homelessness or facing food insecurity.
Participants can choose a two-kilometre or five-kilometre route through downtown, starting and ending at Mountainview Christian Reformed Church (290 Main St. E.). Funds raised go to the YWCA Niagara Region to support its West Niagara Affordable Housing program and related emergency shelter and transitional supports for women and families in the area.
Recent analyses for the region show sharp increases in need: from the start of 2019 to August 2025, the number of unhoused people in Niagara receiving Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support Program payments rose by about 71.8%. Organizers hope to raise more than $75,000 this year to help meet the growing needs of seniors and other vulnerable residents who require assistance.
Residents can get involved by visiting the Coldest Night of the Year website to register for a team or make a donation. The family-friendly event is intended to raise funds and awareness about the challenges faced by people who must brave the winter cold without secure housing.
