Team Freezin' for a Reason support for Bissell Centre exceeds goal

Thanks to the generous support of family and friends, classmates and faculty, team Freezin’ for a Reason surpassed all their fundraising goals!

With an initial goal of $4,000, the team raised $4,745 for this great cause.

This was the second-year the team took part in the annual Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) fundraiser hosted by the Bissell Centre, Feb. 20. The fundraiser helps support those who are lonely, homeless, cold and hungry.

A special shout out goes to the interim president of St. Joseph’s College, Dr. Shawn Flynn, who heard about the team and reached out pledging to sleep outside on the 20th in support of the Bissell Centre.

“His hope was to bring more awareness to the cause and direct donations towards "Freezin' for a Reason". Thanks to his efforts we raised several hundred more dollars,” says dental hygiene student Alanna Blanchette. “It broke my heart to see people without shelter in the extreme winter temperatures. I wanted to help make a difference. I learnt about CNOY and rallied a group of friends to join.”

Along with Blanchette, team Freezin’ for a Reason included students Alborz Azizpourshoobi, Jessica Logan, Candice Huculiak, Mary Cairns, Sarah Gibbs, Mary Anne Gibbs, Oscar Baron-Ruiz, Andres Merino-Restrepo, and Melody Atefi.

The team stressed that taking part in CNOY was important to them for many reasons.

“It raises awareness for a cause that is often overlooked – homelessness is so visible in our city, but yet unnoticed by many. It is an opportunity to give a voice to those who may be voiceless,” says Blanchette. “It collects donations for organizations like the Bissell Centre that work tirelessly to lift people out of poverty. Mainly it is important because everyone deserves a warm home. It reminds us that not everyone is fortunate enough to have a warm home to spend the night in. It made us keep raising awareness in the hopes that our small efforts will make big changes for those who need it most.” 

Due to COVID, the walk downtown didn’t happen, but participants walked with their families and friends in support of the event.

“I am a firm believer in the idea that we rise by lifting others. Taking the time to help those in need makes our community a better place for everyone. All of us need a helping hand at one time or another, so I think it's important to offer one in the ways that we are able,” says Blanchette. “We are proud of our team’s efforts and incredibly grateful for all the support we received.”

The Bissell Centre had an original fundraising goal of $80,000 and actually raised over $127,000!