Join the Coldest Night of the Year Walk to Combat Homelessness

News Summary

The Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk is set to take place on February 22, supporting the YWCA’s Transitional Housing Program. Last year’s event raised over $15,000 for women facing homelessness. This year, attendees can tour new housing spaces funded by a HUD grant. Join the community to make a difference and bring hope to those in need.

Get Ready to Walk! CNOY Coming to Support the YWCA’s Transitional Housing

Mark your calendars, everyone! The Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk is just around the corner. On February 22, the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) is gearing up to host this important event right in the heart of town, starting and ending at the Winter Garden Plaza. Registration kicks off at 4 p.m., and the walk itself will set off at 5 p.m.. It’s not just a stroll; it’s a chance to make a real impact!

Walking for a Cause

Last year’s walk was a huge success, bringing in over $15,000 to bolster the YWCA’s Transitions Supportive Housing Program. This program is a lifeline for single women and women with children who find themselves homeless or on the brink of homelessness. Talk about making a difference! Those involved receive up to two years of stable housing coupled with supportive case management, which helps them get back on their feet.

The program isn’t just about providing a roof over someone’s head; it’s about helping women stabilize their lives, develop crucial life skills, and set achievable goals for securing long-term housing. Sounds like the kind of support that can really change lives, doesn’t it?

Homelessness: A Growing Concern

doubled rates since January 2022. Just from January 2023 to January 2024, there’s been a staggering 53% increase in homelessness within the state, far above the national average. This increase has led to local leaders and organizations like the YWCA and Chautauqua Opportunities Inc. stepping up to the plate to tackle this crisis head-on.

New Horizons for Transitional Housing

HUD, the YWCA has been able to nearly double the capacity of its Transitional Housing Program. They’ve partnered with First Lutheran Church to expand services, adding space for six more women and up to four additional children by June. This expansion is essential in meeting the rising needs of the community.

Community Collaborations

Code Blue shelters, which aim to provide emergency housing solutions throughout the year.

Join the Movement!

Coldest Night of the Year walk is one not to be missed! Together, we can help bring hope and stability to those who need it most. Join the movement and make a difference in our community!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Post-Journal: YWCA Walk to Benefit Transitional Housing Expansion
• Wikipedia: Homelessness
• Observer Today: Second Sweep Ordered to Remove Homeless on Jamestown’s Riverwalk
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Homelessness
• Post-Journal: Public Forum Regarding Homelessness Crisis Held
• Google Search: Transitional Housing
• Observer Today: Homeless Coalition Reports Census Results
• Google News: Homelessness

Author: HERE Plymouth