'Coldest Night Of The Year' In The Forecast For Bucks County

DOYLESTOWN BOROUGH, PA — Bucks County residents are again being asked to bundle up, step outside and experience what it’s like to be homeless during The Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY).

The family-friendly winter fundraising walk will be held in Doylestown Borough on Feb. 22 in support of programs and services for those experiencing homelessness and hunger throughout Bucks County.

The walk is being organized by the YWCA of Bucks County, the Bucks County Opportunity Council (BCOC), the Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG) and the Family Service Association who have come together in support of individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Bucks County.

”It’s going to be a fun, meaningful 5K or 2K walk through Doylestown starting at the Justice Center and ending up at the James Lorah Auditorium,” said organizer Kristin Chapin of the YWCA of Bucks County. “But this special event and evening is more than just a walk. It’s a movement of compassion and action.

“Why should you walk?” asks Chapin. “Homelessness impacts hundreds of individuals and families here in Bucks County everyday and by participating you’re directly supporting the programs and services provided by these four nonprofits and housing providers.”

The four organizations provide emergency housing assistance, support, case management, food and a variety of other services to those most vulnerable in the community.

The first annual Coldest Night of the Year walk stepped off in 2023 from the Justice Center in Doylestown. (Jeff Werner/Patch)

"By walking together in the chill of the night (whether physically or in spirit), participants will better understand the experience of being on the streets during the cold winter months," said Chapin. “Every step you take helps to raise awareness for individuals experiencing crisis. Your involvement assures that essential programs continue to provide shelter, support and hope for a brighter future.”

Participants will walk a 2K or 5K route and will warm up with toasty drinks at rest stops along the way. It will conclude with a warm meal and time to celebrate achievements inside the James Lorah Auditorium.

“We want you to walk together in community, feel the energy of community as we start at the Justice Center and make our way through town,” said Chapin.

The event will kick off at 4:45 p.m. on Feb. 22 in front of the Justice Center with remarks and a performance by Drummers With Attitude from Truman High School in Bristol Township. A moment of silence will also be held in remembrance of homeless who have died in Bucks County.

“This is a great opportunity for those who raise money to earn a toque as a badge of honor that symbolizes your commitment to standing up for those who need it most but more importantly every dollar raised helps provide shelter, food, support and stability for families facing hardship,” said Chapin.

On the same evening, virtual walkers are welcome to participate from anywhere by designing their own route.. Walkers raising $150 or more ($75 for youth) will receive the iconic CNOY toque as a symbol of their commitment.

How can you get involved?

“You can register as an individual or create a team, set a fundraising goal, rally your friends and family and help them support your journey,” said Chapin. “It is free to walk. We welcome everyone to participate. And we encourage those who are able to fundraise. You can also volunteer. There are lots of volunteer opportunities whether you’re inside helping to serve food or out on the route directing our walkers.”

The YWCA, BCOC, FSA and BCHG have been serving Bucks County for more than 40 years, and the funds raised at the Coldest Night of the Year will benefit their efforts at a time of the year known historically for low levels of giving.

For event and fundraising information, contact Kelly Pasquarella, YWCA’s Director of Resource Development, at kpasquarella@ywcabucks.org or call 267-438-2282. Participants can sign up by clicking here.