(Not quite the) Coldest Night of the Year (14 photos)

On a night that, when compared to recent days, wasn't especially chilly, 26 teams comprised of 214 walkers ventured out to take part in the national charity walk, Coldest Night of the Year, on Saturday evening.

The annual fundraiser supports St. Vincent Place, a volunteer-run full service men's shelter that includes a soup kitchen, food bank and thrift store.

As participants warmed themselves at St. Vincent Place in preparation for the downtown Sault Ste. Marie walk, event organizers offered remarks, thanks, and instructions.

"We're really excited to be part of an event that, across Canada so far, has raised over $2.7 million. The goal is $3 million, and I'm sure we'll beat it," said Jennifer Sarlo, event director, during her opening remarks. "Tonight, we can celebrate in Sault Ste. Marie as we are currently very close to raising $46,000. Sault Ste. Marie is that kind of city and we really appreciate all that you have done to be part of that. Every little bit counts."

"This is the best part about being the Mayor of Sault Ste. Marie, getting out and working with the community to improve the community," said Mayor Christian Provenzano, whose 17-member team - The City-Zens - raised more than $6,300 toward the cause.

The Sault Ste. Marie Coldest Night of the Year event was graciously supported locally by Avery Construction, BDO Accounting Sault Ste. Marie, S&T Group, Dawson and Keenan Insurance, Assante Wealth Management, Summit Community Church, Tim Horton's Bay Street, Brohart Family Photography, the Senior's Drop In Centre, Local2, SooToday, and Soo Mill Buildall.

To learn more about the Coldest Night of the Year, please click here.

For more information about St. Vincent Place and its services, visit them online.