Annual event set for this weekend
Jake Browning
reporter@thefranklinpress.com
Winter is in full swing in Macon County, which means it’s time for residents to turn an eye to those less fortunate with the 12th annual Cold for a Cause.
Patrick Jenkins spent one weekend per year in Joe Sanders’ crane in the middle of January for a full decade to collect warm clothing for Macon County citizens who lack adequate protection from the elements at this time of year. Last year, Jenkins retired and handed off the event to CareNet, which is hosting it again for 2021. CareNet executive director Tim Hogsed says that 2020 was a year of unprecedented need among the organization’s clientele and the community was generous with its support of CareNet. He hopes to see that generosity continue during Cold for a Cause.
“We hope this will be one of the most successful years for Cold for a Cause that we’ve ever seen,” Hogsed said.
This year’s event will be split across two days with two 24-hour shifts. Becky Ramey, a CareNet board member, will represent CareNet. Ramey has volunteered with and donated to Cold for a Cause in the past, but this will be her first experience up in the crane. Having seen the good it does for the residents CareNet serves, however, she’s not too worried about making it for one day.
“I am a person who enjoys cold weather, so I’m feeling good about it in that regard,” Ramey said. “The hardest part may be having to wave my arm for the whole time.”
Outdoor 76 co-owner Cory McCall will also take a shift in the crane. To McCall, participating in the event is a learning experience. He says he’s never had to worry about not having enough warm clothes, but the health and economic concerns that plagued Macon County last year made him more aware of how much good programs like Cold for a Cause can do.
“All that CareNet does for our community has become more apparent over the last year,” McCall said. “Cold for a Cause is another great reality check.”
As he has since the inception of the event, Sanders will once again be donating his crane for the weekend. He’s been happy to see Macon County residents rise to the occasion and support their neighbors every year since 2009 and he’s sure this year will be just as much of a benefit.
“It’s such a good cause and everybody has such a good heart who’s interested in it,” Sanders said. “It’s a blessing to everyone involved.”
Cold for a Cause will be held at the Franklin Plaza from noon, Friday, Jan. 15 through noon, Sunday, Jan. 17.