COLD LAKE - In the heartwarming spirit of the holiday season, the community of Cold Lake once again came together to support a noble cause through the fourth edition of the Great Cold Lake Turkey Race.
This event, aimed at benefiting the Cold Lake Food Bank's Christmas Hamper Project, received an overwhelming display of generosity from individuals, families, workplaces, and businesses within the community.
“We’ve received donations from $4 to $1,000, plus 100 per cent of the money donated goes directly to the Cold Lake Food Bank,” said Dan Noseworthy, marketing coordinator with the City of Cold Lake.
Considering economic trials faced by many during this festive season, organizers were deeply moved by the community's willingness to lend a hand, even amid their own hardships.
“We know that people are struggling to meet their own needs this holiday season,” acknowledged Noseworthy.
Plans are already in motion for the event's return next year.
“Ruffles will be back in 2024 to run for the fifth time. When asked to comment on this year’s race, Ruffles replied with an enthusiastic, “Gobble, gobble,” added Noseworthy.
Ruffles didn't limit his involvement to just the race. His charismatic presence graced a Cold Lake Ice hockey game and even adorned Santa's float during the Cold Lake Santa Parade, spreading joy and cheer wherever he went.
To date, $5,639 has been donated, an amount that translates into the equivalent of 226 turkeys- a substantial contribution that will make a meaningful difference this holiday season for many families.
“Ruffles, the Cold Lake Food Bank, and Cold Lake and District FCSS want to thank the community for their support of the Great Cold Lake Turkey Race and want to wish everyone in the Lakeland a happy and safe holiday season,” says Noseworthy.
