from New Journey Community Outreach
New Journey Community Outreach (NJCO) is calling on community members to lace up their sneakers and brave the cold for a cause that warms the heart. The non-profit organization is a proud sponsor of the annual Coldest Night of the Year 5K, a family-friendly winter walk dedicated to supporting those in our community who are hurt, hungry, and homeless. The walk is scheduled to take place on Feb. 22, 2025, at the Penn State Berks campus, with registration now open for individuals and teams eager to make a difference.
NJCO is the lifeline for hundreds within our community. Last year, over 7,200 families received groceries through the NJCO food pantry and the daily lunch program served over 76,000 meals, providing critical nourishment for many who are homeless. Over the past four years, the daily lunch program has grown from serving 100 people to over 400 daily. This growth illustrates the increasing demand for New Journey’s services within the community. The funds raised during CNOY will help expand these vital services, especially during a time of year when the need is greatest and donations typically decline. By walking in the Coldest Night of the Year 5K, participants help ensure that NJCO can continue its critical mission of providing food, warmth, and a sense of belonging to those in need.
Juan, a daily guest of NJCO who has experienced homelessness, spoke to the profound impact the organization has on individuals like himself: “I was a stranger when I started coming to NJCO. I didn’t know much about them, and they didn’t know me. They made me feel welcome. They never rushed me out. Now, I volunteer at NJCO every day. This place has given me purpose. They believe I can do it, so I believe I can do it.”
NJCO invites walkers of all ages to join this inspiring event, which not only raises funds but also awareness for the ongoing struggle against homelessness and hunger. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with the community and see firsthand the difference their support makes.
“Every step taken in our Coldest Night of the Year 5K is a step towards ending the cycle of poverty and homelessness in our community,” said Christie Botterbusch, Executive Director of New Journey Community Outreach. “We encourage everyone to join us in this meaningful walk. Every walker, donor, and volunteer brings our community closer to a future where no one has to face the cold alone.”
Together, we can provide more than just meals; we can offer warmth, companionship, and a path forward. Join us on the walk to light up the coldest night of the year.
To register for the walk or to make a donation, please visit www.njcoinc.org/cnoy.
The post Take Strides Against Hunger and Homelessness: Join the Coldest Night of the Year 5K with New Journey Community Outreach appeared first on BCTV.
Source: bctv
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