‘Biggest turnout so far’ at free holiday skate for COPE on Sunday

Local realtor Matt Goch held his third annual free family skating event at the Fort Erie Leisureplex on Sunday, which also served as a fundraiser for the COPE (Community Outreach Program Erie) food bank on Dufferin Street.

The day included skating, activities like face painting and photos with Santa printed on site.

Donations to COPE were accepted at the door, including nonperishable food items.

“It started as a way for us to give back to the community that supports us and where we live, work and play in Fort Erie, and now it’s become an annual tradition,” Goch told Fort Erie Radio.

There was no fundraising target set for the event, Goch said, as attendance can be difficult to predict for free community skates held close to Christmas.

“This has probably been our biggest turnout so far in the three years and we’re going to keep doing it every year,” he said.

Refreshments and holiday treats such as hot chocolate, popcorn, Timbits and candy canes were also available for all attendees.

Goch said his motivation to host the annual event remains rooted in gratitude to the town that supports his work and family.

“All these people in the community have supported me and my business, and this is just a way for me to be able to give back,” said Goch.

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