This past Saturday, February 28, the CAFE crew bundled up and hit the streets of Toronto for the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk — marking our fifth year in a row walking to raise funds and awareness for neighbours facing hunger, hurt, and homelessness.
CNOY is a national winter fundraising event that brings people together to support local charities making a real difference in their communities. What started as a grassroots initiative has grown into one of Canada’s most heart-felt winter traditions: tens of thousands of walkers, volunteers, and donors joining in locations from coast to coast. In 2026 alone, the event brought together over 40,000 walkers and raised more than $15 million across Canada — all in support of community partners helping people experiencing food insecurity, unsafe housing, and need on the coldest nights of the year.
Here in Toronto at the Fort York Food Bank location, the vibe was full of inspiration and warmth. Our event day kicked off with opening remarks at 4:30 pm, followed by a beautiful bagpipe performance that set the tone for the evening. A friendly mascot was on hand for photos and smiles — a fun reminder that even in the cold, there’s joy in coming together for a cause. After the festivities, our team hit the 2 km route with friends, colleagues, and neighbours, walking through the historic streets of the city and sharing laughter, hot drinks, and purpose along the way.
Crossing that finish line amid cheers from volunteers and fellow walkers was a moment that reminded us exactly why we lace up our boots every year: connection. It’s about walking beside people from all walks of life who share a belief that everyone deserves dignity, nourishment, and support — no matter what walk of life they’re in. At CNOY, the cold underfoot echoes the challenges many experience year-round, but every step is a tribute to community compassion and collective action.
The Fort York Food Bank, the charity we walked for, is one of Toronto’s busiest food banks — serving thousands of neighbours with groceries, meals, and essential supports every week. CAFE has proudly supported FYFB over the years because their work mirrors our values: care for community, consistent support, and boots-on-the-ground impact.
While CNOY is a fundraising event, it’s also a celebration of what happens when people show up — not just with donations, but with heart. The funds we raised help ensure that local food programs can keep running, that hot meals and groceries reach those who need them, and that awareness around poverty and hunger stays part of the community conversation.
Thank you to everyone who walked with us, donated, cheered, and shared in this meaningful experience. From our team to yours, here’s to continuing the tradition — and the mission — at Coldest Night of the Year 2027.
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