Elliot Lake welcoming brave plungers for charity event
‘Bring your courage—and your donations.’ That’s the call from organizers of Elliot Lake’s first Cold 4 a Cause Polar Plunge happening on Jan. 1 at Spine Beach. The goal? To make waves against hunger
Elliot Lake is all set to ring in the New Year with a chilling event—the inaugural “Cold 4 a Cause Polar Plunge,” brought to you by Baddie Bandhas Wellness and Stephanie Snow.
Mark your calendars for Jan. 1, 2026, at Spine Beach, where the fun will begin at 1:00 p.m. This event is not just about the plunge; it’s a chance to raise vital funds and awareness for the Elliot Lake Emergency Food Bank (ELEFB) while uniting our community during these tough times.
The hosts invite residents to join in and bring along non-perishable food items, hygiene products, or cash donations to support local families facing food insecurity.
Stephanie Snow, organizer of the event, expressed her optimism, stating, “We’re hoping for a good turnout, and things are looking promising to have the city’s support.”
Snow highlighted the collaboration with the Elliot Lake Fire Services’ recent food drive, noting, “This event is in collaboration with the Fire Department’s 35th annual food drive that they just did great on.”
Elliot Lake has faced a tough year, filled with deep sorrow as the community grapples with the loss of individuals who played vital roles in the lives of its residents. Among those mourned are Louis Ucci, Chris Folz, and the incredibly brave Elijah Hennessy.
Prior to the plunge, there will be a moment of silence in memory of lost loved ones, and participants will have the opportunity to dedicate their plunge to someone they love or miss, recognizing the quiet grief many families experience.
Snow emphasized that “rather than a formal ceremony, the focus is on community showing up for community — stepping into something uncomfortable together, supporting one another, and giving back in honour of those we’ve lost.”
She underscored the importance of keeping the event “genuine, respectful, and rooted in basic care and compassion.”
Local businesses are encouraged to participate in this community-driven event. Whether you can sponsor, provide warm drinks or fire pits, or make a direct donation to the food bank, your support can truly make a difference and enhance your presence in the community.
Whether you choose to take the plunge, cheer from the sidelines, or simply join in the festivities, your presence will help cultivate a sense of togetherness and compassion as we step into the new year.
By Lisa Rene-de-Cotret, SOOTODAY.com
