Grace Inn Shelter has launched Belleville’s 2026 Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) campaign—now with a new starting location.
After years of steady growth, the event has outgrown the parking lot of the shelter and will now begin and end at Maranatha Church on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
This year, the event aims to raise $65,000 to support essential homelessness services provided by Grace Inn Shelter.
The move, driven by rising participation, will allow walkers to gather more safely and comfortably while supporting a more visible 5km route. Walkers will head north on North Front Street and continue past the Quinte Mall on Bell Boulevard—an intentional choice to highlight that homelessness affects people in every corner of Belleville, not only in the downtown core.
“Seeing the growth of this event mirrors the growing awareness and compassion in our city,” says Rob Crisp, Executive Director of Grace Inn Shelter. “Our new starting point at Maranatha Church gives us the space we need—and our new route puts the realities of homelessness where the whole community can see them. Every step taken is part of restoring dignity and hope.”
This year’s walk will feature warming firepits, opening ceremonies, a refreshed route, and a warm post-walk celebration at Maranatha Church—complete with soup and chili to end the walk with warmth and gratitude for those who have diligently raised funds to support the shelter.
“We’re inviting families, businesses, faith communities, and groups of friends to join us,” says Crisp, “When you walk from Maranatha Church on February 28, you walk alongside those who rely on Grace Inn for safety, warmth, and the chance to rebuild.”
How to Get Involved
- Register to walk the 5km or 2km route as an individual or register with friends, family or co-workers and start a team
- Donate to support a walker or team
- Share the campaign to raise awareness
Sign up at GraceInnShelter.com.
