Local non-profit Micah Ecumenical Ministries is preparing for their first Coldest Night of the Year, a family-friendly walk that focuses on raising funds and awareness for those “experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness.”
Of the more than twenty participating localities, Micah’s fundraising for Fredericksburg currently leads the nation with nearly $60,000 raised from 200 teams of walkers that include non-profits, churches, businesses and others in the community.
While the organization has never held a large, community-wide fundraising effort in the past, according to Micah’s Executive Administrator Jill Clare, the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“We heard about Coldest Night of the Year, and the focus of the event aligns exactly with what we’re already doing with our unhoused neighbors: easing homelessness, hurt, and hunger in our community. We were excited to get involved and see what our community would bring to this event, and the community has REALLY come together around it.”
Proceeds from the event will assist with many of the Ministries’ existing needs as well as the Hospitality Center, which offers basic support, income development programs, a worship center and temporary shelter for those discharging from hospitals.
Micah Ecumenical Ministries consists of nine church congregations who collaborate to provide care to the community’s homeless. Since 2017, they’ve provided nearly 20,000 services and served nearly 800 people.
There’s still time to get involved! Find a team to join or make a donation at bit.ly/3XZqMKe.