We are honoured to be featured in the Ottawa Citizen’s Social Scene as we prepare for Coldest Night of the Year on February 28 in Ottawa Westboro.

In the article by Ashley Fraser, our community is encouraged to bundle up and turn winter’s chill into warmth and housing. This family-friendly walk will bring neighbours together at All Saints Anglican Church in Westboro for 2km and 5km routes supporting women experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness in Ottawa.

Cornerstone provides emergency shelter and supportive housing to more than 300 women and gender-diverse people each day, including a 165-bed shelter on Carling Avenue. While Cornerstone receives some municipal funding, community fundraising remains essential to sustain daily operations, meals, and critical support services.

Executive Director, Anne Marie Hopkins, emphasized that “Cornerstone must fundraise more than $1 million annually to keep its doors open and continue serving women in need”.

There is a strong community response leading up to walk day, with local businesses, volunteers, and partners rallying to help reach the $100,000 goal. Long-time supporter Judy Lincoln, Executive Director of the Westboro Village BIA, notes how small donations quickly add up and create meaningful impact through the walk.

Coldest Night of the Year is more than a fundraiser — it is a powerful reminder that every step forward helps create stability, dignity, and hope for women in Ottawa.

We extend our sincere thanks to the Ottawa Citizen for sharing this story and to our community for continuing to show up for women in our city.

 Read the full Ottawa Citizen article