Port Alberni, February 26, 2024 — Sage Haven Society is delighted to announce the triumphant conclusion of its 8th Annual Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) event in Port Alberni, held on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Char’s Landing, a dedicated vendor sponsor.
The community came together for a night of compassion and unity as walkers embarked on a 2- or 5-kilometre route. Post-walk, participants enjoyed heartwarming chilli and hot drinks courtesy of the Salvation Army and Tim Hortons.
This year’s CNOY in Port Alberni exceeded all expectations, boasting 179 registered walkers, surpassing the 117 participants from 2023, and forming 24 enthusiastic teams.
The dedicated efforts of 38 volunteers from organizations like the Rotary Club, Arrowsmith Radio Club, and Arrowsmith Station Star Trek Fan Club contributed to the event’s resounding success, raising an extraordinary $48,907—marking a significant milestone in the organization’s fundraising history and pledges are still being entered. The event may even surpass $50,000!
The Coulson Group of Companies, this year’s lead sponsor, spearheaded the event alongside other key sponsors, including Alberni District Co-op, BC Housing, Port Alberni Port Authority, The PEAK 99.3, and the AV News. A comprehensive list of community sponsors can be found on the CNOY website.
Integral to the success of this year’s event were local integrated service providers and organizations, such as Alberni Elementary, BCEHS Station 124, Port Alberni Health Unit, and the West Coast General Hospital Foundation. Two standout teams, the Sage Haven Striders and Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, led the way by raising the most funds.
The event’s kickoff included inspiring words from Ken Watts (Chief Counsellor, Tsheshat) and Brandy Lauder (Chief Counsellor, Hupacasath First Nation), with additional insights from MLA Josie Osborne and MP Gord Johns. The evening concluded with a warm chilli dinner served by the Salvation Army.
Sage Haven Society extends heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, volunteers, participants, and community members who made the 8th Annual Coldest Night of the Year event an overwhelming success. The funds raised will significantly contribute to supporting the creation of warm, safe spaces, and services in the Alberni Valley.
For a detailed overview of the event, including closing amounts and additional details, please visit the CNOY, www.cnoy.org/location/portalberni.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ellen Frood, Executive Director
efrood@sagehavensociety.org
250-736-0702
www.sagehavensociety.org
About Sage Haven Society
Sage Haven Society is a Port Alberni-based nonprofit organization and integrated service provider dedicated to providing emergency short-term housing for women and children at risk of or having experienced intimate partner violence and abuse. The organization also operates a local drop-in centre offering warmth and acceptance.
Media Assets:
Images (photo credit: Tasha Potter) are available by emailing communications@sagehavensociety.org
