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Sources Foundation Triumphs Over Stormy Conditions, Raising over $220,000 at Coldest Night of the Year for White Rock/South Surrey

White Rock, BC – February 24, 2025 – In the toughest weather conditions experienced in the last 12 years of Sources Foundation’s Coldest Night of the Year walkathon, the White Rock/South Surrey community showed up at Memorial Park, White Rock Beach in remarkable numbers this past Saturday. The event raised over $220,000 and counting to support food banks, homelessness prevention and youth outreach services.

“This is what Coldest Night of the Year is all about – experiencing the challenging circumstances many of our community members live in every single day,” says Marc Burchell, CNOY White Rock/South Surrey community ambassador. “I am incredibly grateful for the support we have received to serve individuals fighting harsh realities, especially when homelessness across Canada has increased 32% over 2020-23 with Surrey witnessing a 64% rise.”

Amid wind gusts of up to 57 km/hour and heavy rain, former CFL player and celebrity fitness trainer Tommy Europe emceed the evening, pumping up the crowd. White Rock Mayor Megan Knight thanked the walkers for their support and participation. A little army of dancing DinoSOURCES added to the lively atmosphere. Sheila’s Catering provided delicious soup to warm up the walkers, while the Rotary Club of White Rock served hot dogs, Little Ootie’s offered tasty donuts, Starbucks provided coffee and Save-On-Foods contributed treats. The event concluded with a special mention of the volunteers and SOURCES staff who helped set up and improvise plans keeping everyone’s safety in mind.

Ernie Klassen of White Rock Pride Society was the undefeated fundraising champion who brought in over $12,750. White Rock Baptist Church was the top team, raising over $34,000. Representing the youth community was Valley West Giants u17, raising an impressive $13,300 in their first CNOY walk. Other notable teams included White Rock Rotary Club, United Feet for the Street and White Rock ELKS.

“Every contribution at events like CNOY brings warmth and support to those in need. We invite everyone to join us, to not just witness, but be a part of this change,” David MacIntyre, President & CEO of SOURCES. “Together, we can continue to make a profound impact on lives across our community.”

Sources Foundation is grateful for the generosity of local businesses, including our supporting sponsors Elkay, HomeLife Benchmark Realty and BC Housing.

This year’s fundraising goal is $300,000 and donations are accepted until March 31.

To give, visit https://cnoy.org/location/whiterocksouthsurrey.

Media Contact

Janet Welch

Manager, Communications and Philanthropy

SOURCES Foundation JWelch@SourcesBC.ca

About

Established in 1978, Sources Community Resources Society (SOURCES) is an internationally accredited not-for-profit social services agency. Our programs serve individuals across various age groups experiencing poverty, mental health challenges, disability, conflict, isolation and addiction. We have over 20 locations in BC including White Rock, Surrey, Delta, Langley, Prince George, and Parksville. Some of our programs are government funded while others are funded by the generosity of community donors. Sources Foundation is the fundraising arm of SOURCES. Our 365 staff members are the backbone of our organization, touching the lives of thousands of individuals each year.