SOUTH BEND — St. Margaret’s House will host its annual Winter Walk on Feb. 15, inviting the community to experience what many of its guests face daily.
The event aims to raise funds and awareness for women who depend on walking as their primary form of transportation regardless of the weather, according to a press release.
Nearly two-thirds of the women served by St. Margaret’s House walk to access essential services such as hot meals, toiletries and diapers. The Winter Walk allows participants to understand the challenges these women encounter while recognizing their strength and resilience.
This year’s walk comes during a period of transition for St. Margaret’s House as it undergoes a significant building renovation. The project will expand the facility by nearly 50%, enhancing the space to be more welcoming and functional for women. During the construction, the organization continues to provide services offsite, thanks to support from community partners.
The Winter Walk will begin at 1 p.m. Feb. 15 in the parking lot south of St. Margaret’s House on Washington Street, near Lafayette Boulevard. This location will become the new front entrance of the renovated building.
Unlike previous years, the rally will take place at the end of the walk, according to the release. Participants will traverse a one-mile route through downtown South Bend, concluding at South Bend City Church. The post-walk celebration will include cookies, hot cocoa, popcorn and a pop-up shop, offering activities for all ages.
St. Margaret’s House will honor its 2026 Community Partner of the Year, the Cathedral of Saint James, during the event. The cathedral has been instrumental in supporting the organization by housing its daily operations during the renovation.
St. Margaret’s House serves as a day center for women and children in downtown South Bend. It provides immediate assistance, including hot meals and access to computers and phones. The organization focuses on empowering women through programs on parenting, employment and self-care.