Bundle up! ‘Coldest Night of the Year’ is fast approaching
ELORA – It’s time to bundle up for the Coldest Night of the Year.
Elora House is the local recipient of proceeds from the charity event that runs across the country on the same night: Feb. 28.
Broadly, it’s a fundraiser to support hurt, hunger and homelessness and each participating community chooses its own organization to support.
Elora House provides housing, therapy and assistance to women and girls who escape human trafficking as they get back on their feet.
Executive director Luisa Krause said five women graduated from the program in 2025 and they are staying off drugs, getting jobs or returning to school and living healthier lives.
And while Coldest Night is still more than a month away, the time is now to register a team and begin fundraising, she added.
Last year’s event raised $80,000 for Elora House, but the need is great and officials hope to raise $150,000 this year.
“We are helping women with complex needs who have nowhere else to go,” Krause said in a phone interview.
“Coldest Night of the Year is dear to my heart and we hope to have a great turnout.”
Don’t be intimidated by the lofty goal, though.
“A little can do a lot,” she said.
Here’s how it works. Participants are asked to register – either as a team or an individual – at cnoy.org/location/elora. Then reach out to family, friends and associates and begin raising funds. Those who raise $150 or more will get a CNOY toque while supplies last.
The Elora walk takes place on the racetrack at Grand River Raceway.
Teams are asked to arrive around 4pm and the walk begins at 5pm. It will be followed by hot chili and apple cider and treats provided by sponsors. All of the indoor parts of the event are in the horse paddock.
Krause said it’s okay if folks just show up but they will have to register on site before the walk begins.
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Pets are not allowed although service dogs are.
For more information and to register, visit cnoy.org/location/elora.
