Annapolis Valley

About Open Arms

Open Arms is a gift from the community to the community as our programming costs are covered entirely by private donations, supporting businesses, churches and fundraising. Our network of volunteers from churches and the community at large, work to provide food, shelter, housing and much more for men, women, youth and families in crisis. Open Arms serves both as a community for people with long term challenges and a bridge for those seeking to establish healthy independence. By assisting people with basic needs along with offering guidance toward the tools and resources they need, we regularly witness the power of God's love at work restoring hope, dignity and purpose to those who were formerly without hope.

Meals are provided for 40-80 each day at our Kentville location which also has nine shelter beds. A second location in Berwick provides supports for people in Berwick and outreach is now burgeoning in a third location. The benefits of Open Arms are essential and far reaching.

Community Sponsors

Annapolis Valley is super grateful for our fantastic 2020 sponsors! View all sponsors >

Annapolis Valley Scoreboard

Are you thrashing the competition (for a good cause)? Find out here! Stats are updated every 15 minutes. See how you stack up on the national scoreboard >

Event Day Details

Save the date - Event Day is February 22, 2020!

The Coldest Night of the Year is a family-friendly walk that raises money for charities serving hungry, homeless, and hurting people in our community.

Start

We're working on finalizing our Start location - check back soon!

Times

Here's the schedule for Event Day:

• 4 pm: Registration opens

• 5 pm: Opening Ceremonies

• 5:15 pm: Walk begins (all distances)

• 6 pm: Registration closes

• 6 pm: Meal service begins

• 8 pm: Route closes, meal service ends

Yummy Food on Event Day:

Between 6:00 and 8:00 pm a warm, light meal will be served to all walkers and volunteers.

Registration

Registration Process:

• Registration opens at 4:00 pm.

• All walkers must check-in at registration upon arrival.

• Check out the What to Bring section below.

Registration Types:

• Children 0-10: Free to participate (but you'll need to raise $75 to earn a toque)

• Youth 11-17: Fundraise $75+ to earn your CNOY toque or pay the $25 registration fee

• Adult 18+: Fundraise $150+ to earn your CNOY toque or pay the $25 registration fee

Route Details

• Route Distances: 2 km, 5 km, or 10 km walks.

• Rest stops are available on all routes.

• All routes will be well signed.

• Route marshals, rest stop attendants, and sweep vehicle drivers will provide support along the route.

• All walkers 12 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

What to Bring

• Cheques made out to Coldest Night of the Year and cash donations

• A completed Pledge Form or My Results Form if you’re bringing cash or cheques

• A signed Waiver Form if:

• You're 17 years and under, or

• You didn’t sign up online before event day

• Good waterproof shoes/boots for walking

• Warm coat and mitts

• A cell phone for emergencies (recommended but not required)

• Extra food or snacks if you have allergies or food sensitivities

• A passion for the charity you're walking for