Edmontonians gathered on Saturday for the Hope Mission’s Cold Hands, Warm Hearts fundraiser, raising more than $110,000 to help provide hot meals for people in need of one.
The Hope Mission has been operating in Edmonton since 1929, providing shelter and services including housing support, laundry, ID services and income support navigation.
Kevin Wiebe, with the Hope Mission, said the number of people seeking help and something warm to eat has been rising dramatically.
“(Our kitchens are) often surpassing 3,000 meals in a single day,” he said. “The need for shelter, and meals and medical care is very significant for our vulnerable neighbours.”
As of Saturday at 6 p.m., the Hope Mission had more than doubled its $54,000 goal.
Nathan Sudyk is part of a group that raised more than $7,000.
“Makes us feel great to give back to our community and help those who are struggling in today’s society,” he said.
Wiebe said the fundraiser will continue until March 16 and that a little can go a long way, with a donation of $2.70 enough to buy someone a meal.
Donations to Cold Hands, Warm Hearts can be made online at the Hope Mission website.
