Elora community raises over $78,000 at Coldest Night fundraiser

February 26, 2025 @ 9:00 amNews

From left: Steve Shelton, Denis Reid, Janelle LeBlanc, Frizzell and Lynda Cummings. Photos by Georgia York
The Coldest Night of the Year toque is a way to thank walkers who fundraised $150 or more. Several participants wore the merchandise during the event.
Opening remarks – Before the event began, founder and executive director of Elora House Luisa Krause thanked all the teams, walkers and sponsors for supporting the fundraiser.
The Fergus Pipe Band played while the walkers prepared to set off. Members of the band later joined the walk.
Walkers – This group of enthusiastic walkers started the event an hour before the rest of the participants.
Embracing the cold – Coldest Night of the Year event director Shannon Frizzell led the walkers as the Fergus Pipe Band played them into the cold.
Support – After sending the walkers off with music, some members of the Fergus Pipe Band joined in on the event.

ELORA – One of the many Coldest Night of the Year fundraisers across the country took place at the Grand River Raceway in Elora on Feb. 22. The charity walk was set up to support Elora House, an organization that provides safe housing and support to females who are victims of sexual exploitation and/or human trafficking. The goal was to raise $80,000 and as of Feb. 25 over $78,000 was donated. Roughly 141 walkers split into 22 teams walked in support of the local charity. Event director Shannon Frizzell and her volunteer team kept spirits high with smiles, a dance warm-up and goofy costumes.