The food was the star of the show, but the point behind Saturday's Coldest Night of the Year kickoff at HOPE House was to raise awareness of next month's big fundraiser.
The Muslim Society of Guelph supplied delicious chicken and vegetarian rice and biryani dishes at the kickoff event for a nominal fee. Those eating got to vote on their favourite and that is what will be served to participants and volunteers taking place in the Coldest night of the Year walk set for Feb. 24.
Organizer Ted Drewlo said that last year the Coldest Night of the Year event raised $76,000 for the many community programs that HOPE House runs out of its Downtown Guelph location. This year's goal is over $100,000.
A total of 287 people took place last year, a record for the five years the event has been held.
People participate as community, corporate or neighbourhood teams or as families and individuals.
"We get a lot of families. It's a great walk and a great family event," said Drewlo
The event takes place Feb. 24, starting at the Guelph Armoury and winding up at HOPE House, with participants having the choice of a 2km, 5km or 10km walk.
There are rest stops along the way, volunteers on the well-lit routes
Adults and youths pay $25 to participate or raise a minimum of $75 through pledges. Children 10 and under are free.
More info and registration can be found here.
