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BENTON HARBOR — Emergency Shelter Services is encouraging Berrien County residents to team up, fundraise, and participate in The Coldest Night of the Year awareness walk next month. 

The family-friendly fundraising walk takes place on the evening of Saturday, Feb. 22 and supports people experiencing hunger, hurt, and homelessness in Berrien County. 

Thousands of Americans will take to the streets for CNOY with events taking place in cities, towns, and communities all across the country. By walking together in the chill of the night, participants will better understand the experience of being on the streets during a cold American winter, while raising funds to aid the work of Emergency Shelter Services in providing much-needed support to our community. 

The Benton Harbor walk begins and ends at The Secret Garden, located at 209 W. Main St., Benton Harbor. Participants will walk a 5K route through the Benton Harbor Arts District, warm up with toasty drinks at rest stops – sponsored by Peat’s Cider Social and the Renaissance Athletic Club – and will be able to celebrate their efforts together at the finish line. All those who raise over $150 (or $75 for youth) will also don iconic CNOY knit caps (also known as “toques” by our Canadian partners) as they face the cold night. 

This is Emergency Shelter Services’ first year taking part in the Coldest Night of the Year, with a fundraising goal of $20,000. An expected 100 walkers and 20 teams, including staff and friends of Emergency Shelter Services, are expected to brave the cold winter’s night. 

Emergency Shelter Services has been serving Berrien County for 40 years and the funds raised in the Coldest Night of the Year will benefit their clients in a time of the year known historically for low levels of giving. 

For more information, contact ESS Board Secretary Sarah Eades at (630) 903-1072.