The Coldest Night of the Year is Coming...

Squamish Fundraiser supports those in need

Photo courtesy of Squamish Helping Hands Society.

What do you do when your feet are cold? Put on warm socks? Head inside?

Consider how you would cope if neither of these was an option.

For the third year in a row, Squamish Helping Hands (SHH) is inviting people to join them on a walk through downtown Squamish at their Coldest Night of the Year event on February 28, 2026.

Everyone is welcome to attend this family-friendly walk.

Organizers see the event as a means to build bridges and support people experiencing "hunger, hurt, and homelessness" in Squamish.

In its third year, organizer and SHH Director of Fund Development and Partnership Amber Cowie sees the event as a way to connect people. "Walking together on the cold, wet, dark downtown streets is a chance for every person to experience what it’s like to be unhoused during the most difficult time of the year," she says.

"It's important because it’s our strongest opportunity to build community and connect our team, volunteers, partners, supporters, and participants together as we all work toward creating a safe and healthy community for all. Walking together on the rainy downtown streets provides a moment of solidarity and strength for people experiencing homeless and hunger in Squamish. It’s an amazing moment to share experiences and offer concerted support to those in need."

Last year more than 2,100 community supporters representing 55 teams walked together to raise $101,368. The Squamish Rotary Club, and 28 local companies from industries as diverse as Sea to Sky Welding and Fabrication, Alair Homes, and Stong’s Market contributed $22,600 in sponsorships.

Cowie says she was moved last year by the number of local residents who came to walk, help out and share their own stories. "We had seven schools host their own Coldest Night of the Year walks off-site last year and when we received their donations, I teared up counting the nickels and dimes that were contributed by students (alongside the larger donations). It was so poignant to know that the youth of our community are willing to be a part of making everyone feel safe and supported in Squamish."

Organizers say that this year, the Squamish Coldest Night of the Year will take place alongside walks in 225 communities across Canada, all on the same night.

“Coldest Night of the Year is our largest annual fundraiser,” said SHH executive director, Lori Pyne. “The funds raised support connected care that meets people where they are, spanning health, housing, and social supports. Join us in solidarity for Squamish’s wellbeing. Walk. Donate. Volunteer—or do all three!”

All funds raised go towards caring for people in need in the community. The money means individuals and families who use the services of Squamish Helping Hands and the Squamish Food Bank will receive basic amenities and resources, which staff hope will help stability and a chance to prepare for the next stage of their lives. 

The Squamish walk will begin at Junction Park, 37950 Cleveland Ave and end at Howe Sound Inn and Brewing for a light meal provided by the food service team at Squamish Helping Hands. Participants can choose between a two-kilometre or five-kilometre route, and there will be chances to warm up with toasty drinks and snacks at rest stops along the way.

Adults who raise over $150 (or $75 for youth) will be given a Coldest Night of the Year toque.

This year's goal is to beat that $100,000 from last year, and SHH is looking for team captains to help organize efforts.

Squamish Helping Hands is marking its 20th anniversary this year. With the recent merger of the Squamish Food Bank and Squamish Helping Hands, the fundraiser is held at the time of year when food bank donations are the lowest.

Cowie notes that the event is not meant to be a realistic representation of the challenges of living unhoused. "Even in the most horrid conditions, the two-hour walk cannot fully showcase how difficult it is to experience homelessness and hunger. Instead, it is a chance to come together to demonstrate how much it matters to care for people who need help and to celebrate the depth of generosity, compassion, and solidarity we have in our community."

To become a team captain, or for more information, Cowie can be reached at acowie@shhs.ca

"We are all connected but it can be hard to find places and ways to meet and show who we really are," says Cowie. "Coldest Night of the Year is one of those rare and beautiful moments when we get to do just that."

Squamish #CNOY Walk, February 28, 4 - 7 p.m.

Start/Finish: O'Siyam Pavilion, Junction Park,

37950 Cleveland Avenue, Sqamish

Check in: 4 p.m.

Walk begins: 5 p.m.

Meal begins: 6 p.m.

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