The Mustard Seed Kamloops is gearing up for its annual Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser which officially takes place this Saturday, February 20.

Managing Director Kelly Thomson says the goal this year is to raise $20,000. “It’s one of our big ones for the year and it’s one that to be honest it really gives people the opportunity to experience what our guests experience on a day-to-day night-to-night proposition.”

“Well I think the biggest thing is just that being out in the cold whether and going on a little bit of a longer walk than you’re used to. If you really want to experience what some of these folks go through maybe put on a lighter jacket than you would actually normally wear so the cold gets through and into your bones.”

Thomson says the pandemic has made things very difficult when it comes to finding space for people to stay warm at night because protocols have limited capacity. “A lot of these people unfortunately they’re still sleeping on the streets here and there. We’ve got shelters available and they’re filling up.”

You can register for free online at theseed.ca and it is noted that every $3.51 donated provides a meal and other resources for someone in need. There is no registration fee so everyone is welcomed to come out and support those experiencing homelessness in our community.