Bernice Glenn has witnessed her son’s enduring battle with homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges over the past 16 years in their rural Ontario community, a constant source of difficulty. “He has spent years on the streets,” she shared, expressing her helplessness in aiding him through his struggles.
Despite being a diligent worker, her son fell into drug addiction and mental health issues, ultimately leading to his homelessness. Glenn occasionally encounters him in their small town, but these encounters are often fraught with challenges. “It’s a tough sight to witness. We constantly encounter obstacles,” she lamented, attributing the struggles to the destructive nature of addiction.
The impact of her son’s situation extends beyond their immediate family, affecting everyone who knew him as a compassionate individual. Glenn emphasized that individuals grappling with addiction are cherished members of families, born into love and care.
Motivated by her son’s plight, Glenn joined the annual Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser when it reached her locality, feeling compelled to take action. Her team, ‘Bernie’s Bunch,’ has emerged as one of the top 15 fundraising teams in the country, reflecting the community’s support.
The Coldest Night of the Year event, a nationwide fundraising walk occurring this Saturday, unites communities across Canada to support local charities assisting those facing hunger or homelessness. Participants in over 222 communities don blue and yellow toques, collectively raising over $12 million as of the latest count.
In Goderich, the event is coordinated by the United Way Perth-Huron and Huron Homelessness Initiative, with proceeds benefiting organizations like Artemis Huron Women’s Shelters, Huron Safe Homes for Youth, The Bridge Housing and Stability Program, and Huron Turning Point. Similar efforts in London aim to raise funds for Mission Services of London.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, John Wolfe, a realtor from Stratford, emphasized the potential for anyone’s life to take a downturn. Wolfe, leading the ‘Chill Chasers 2026’ team for the second time, stressed the event’s role in shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness.
Sonya Heyen from the United Way Perth-Huron highlighted the event as a simple yet impactful way of uniting people for a common cause. The collective action of walking together demonstrates a commitment to making tangible differences in the lives of those in need.
Glenn finds participating in the event deeply emotional, moved by the outpouring of support from the community. “Seeing so many people come out to help brings tears to my eyes. It fills me with pride,” she shared, underscoring her involvement as a heartfelt response to her son’s ongoing struggles.