Warm up to Coldest Night

SANDUSKY — It's only supposed to be about 25 degrees on the "coldest night of the year." So it's warm enough to still head outside, walk around the area and raise money for an important cause, according to organizers of a locally based event with international ties. With help from Anita Kromer — executive director for Care and Share of Erie County, a leading organization in feeding underserved and less fortunate locals — here's what people need to know. Q: What's happening worldwide? A: Known as the Coldest Night of the Year, it's "a family-friendly winter walk that raises vital funds for local organizations serving people experiencing homelessness, hunger and hardship," according to an event statement. Depending on the event, walking distances differ, however, most range between 1 mile and 3 miles in length. "When you join Coldest Night of the Year, you're not just walking: You're fundraising to help your neighbors find warmth, safety and support," it added. "Each February, thousands of people across the country step outside their comfort zones to show compassion and solidarity with those who are struggling in the cold," it added. "Your participation and your fundraising make a real difference in your community." Q: When's it happening? A: On Saturday, it's expected that nearly 300 Coldest Night of the Year events will take place across North America: more than 200 in Canada and almost 100 in the U.S. Organizers anticipate thousands of people to collectively participate in these events. Q: What's the local connection? A: Those at Care and Share of Erie County are joining the Coldest Night of the Year effort in 2026, scheduling a 3-mile walk from Jackson Street Pier's Mylander Pavilion to the Sandusky Justice Center on Meigs Street and back. Participants will repeat this course for a second time to reach the distance of what would be a 5K. Here's a rough timeline of events: • 4 p.m. — People can start gathering at the pavilion, 223 W. Shoreline Drive, Sandusky. • 4:45 p.m. — Participants can then get ready to begin walking. • 5 p.m. — The walk begins. The walking portion should take about one hour. • 6 p.m. — Attendees will receive a light meal. • 7 p.m. — The event ends. Q: Who can come? A: Anyone can drop by. Pre-registration is not required but is helpful. There are no registration fees. There will be music, food and drinks available to all participants. People can register at cnoy.com/sandusky. "Each step and each dollar raised helps us continue to offer our expanding service and support," according to an event statement. "Walking shoulder to shoulder will remind us all that our shared compassion is what makes us such a great community. We need each other." Q: What's the purpose of this? A: For Care and Share, it's to either educate or refresh people on its mission. The Sandusky-based nonprofit serving all people in Erie County set a goal to raise $20,000 for Coldest Night. Thus far, it's generated $5,200. "This is supporting a local charity that helps people who experience hurt, hunger and homelessness," Kromer said. "And it's a great winter family-friendly fundraising walk. All the money supports our programs with the proceeds going to our pantry for food and hygiene items." People can visit facebook.com/eriecountycareandshare for more information. People can also visit careandshareerieco.org to donate.