ELORA - The second round of the "Elora for Ukraine" fundraising raised $4,875 from its online auction on Thursday, garnering an overall total of $27,000 from both its previous silent auction and online auction.
"Twenty seven thousand is the total between the in-person silent auction we did on Saturday at the Elora Cafe and the round two auction that was online last night," explained Katie Cher, one of the fundraiser organizers, on the phone.
"We're very thrilled that the community really came through with this event and help our friends out in Ukraine. This community has taught me what community means. We're a small group of people with huge hearts, who go out of our way to help those in need - not just our fellow community members, but the members of our world community."
The second round of the fundraising was held online with items and prizes people were able to bid such as an Ayrshire House stay and dinner at The Evelyn; getaway package at The Elora Mill, a few paintings, tattoo certificates and more.
"Many people bid for the online auction. We raised almost $5,000. We also had cash donations come in after the second round auction. Right now, we won't be taking any more cash donations, but people can still donate directly to the Red Cross," she said.
Katie Cher, owner of RubySage boutique store in Elora, explained she was sitting at her table feeling helpless and that there was nothing she could do for the people in Ukraine. She still has family living in Ukraine and wanted to help them and other Ukrainians affected by the war.
Cher said they will be taking a break from doing any other fundraising events for Ukraine for a week, but will come back to the table to brainstorm ideas.
