Edmonton, AB – Veterans’ House Canada is inviting Edmontonians to lace up their boots for the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) on Saturday, February 28, 2026. This family-friendly winter walk raises awareness and funds for people in the community experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness, because it’s cold out there.

Funds raised through the Veterans’ House Edmonton – Athlone CNOY event will directly support the city’s first permanent, affordable, and supportive housing for Veterans experiencing homelessness. Since opening its doors in February 2021, Veterans’ House Canada has worked to restore dignity, hope, and belonging for those who have served our country.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to bring the Coldest Night of the Year to Edmonton Athlone for the very first time,” said Angella Rawsthorne of Veterans’ House Canada. “This is more than just a walk, it’s an opportunity for our community to come together, show support, and give back to the homeless Veterans who once put their lives on the line for us. Every step we take helps build our new Edmonton home for those who need it most. Come walk with us, stand with our Veterans, and help us raise the funds needed to complete our Edmonton build.”

Whether you walk solo, with family, or rally a team from your workplace, this event is a chance to make a real difference and have fun doing it!”

Walking together on CNOY Day is a great way for each community member to show unhoused veterans they’re not forgotten, and to help ensure every veteran has a safe place to call home. 

Event Day Details – Edmonton Athlone

• Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
• Location: Athlone Community (more details)
• Schedule:
  • 4:00 PM: Check-in opens & Photo area
  • 4:45 PM: Opening remarks
  • 5:00 PM: Walk send-off
  • 6:00 PM: Light meal served
  • 7:00 PM: Closing remarks & wrap-up
    

Participants can register as individuals or teams, volunteer, or donate to support walkers and teams. Those who raise $150 or more ($75 for youth under 18) will receive a signature CNOY toque as a token of appreciation.

Not able to join the main event?

Supporters are encouraged to virtually or walk off-site with family and friends and still take part in fundraising efforts.

How to Get Involved

• Register to Walk or Volunteer: https://cnoy.org/location/edmontonathlone
• Donate: Support a walker or team online — gifts of $20+ receive an automatic tax receipt.
• Learn More: Visit www.veteranshousecanada.ca 

Media Contact:
John Atoyebi
Marketing and Communications Manager
communications@veteranshousecanada.ca

Event & Fundraising Contact:
Angella Rawsthorne
Fund Development Manager
fund.development@veteranshousecanada.ca

Michael Schneider, CD 
Edmonton Veteran Support Manager 
veteran.support.edm@veteranshousecanada.ca

Trevor Friesen, CD, P.Eng
Edmonton Operations Manager
operations.manager.edm@veteranshousecanada.ca

Veterans’ House Canada

613-502-0136
Learn more about the Edmonton project: https://www.veteranshousecanada.ca/edmonton/