How Lacing up this Christmas Season Can Change a Life

Dear Santa: Mommy says we can’t afford cookies this year, just milk.  Jason.

While the holiday season is meant to be a happy time, for many it’s a time of great financial strain and worry.

The Salvation Army’s Santa Shuffle, in partnership with the Running Room, is a family-friendly event that is held annually to raise funds for people in need at Christmas and throughout the year. Hosted in 41 cities across Canada, over 16,000 participants run, walk or shuffle to help those who are challenged by difficult situations.

“It’s for a good cause,” says Clark Shiao, who has shuffled for the past five years. “It’s entertaining and the money raised goes directly into helping people in my community. That’s a great thing.”

The event isn’t about speed or personal best. It’s a 5K fun run and 1K elf walk.

Santa Shufflers in Quebec

“I’ve seen some crazy holiday costumes,” says Shiao. “From antlers and penguin suits to Santa wear and elf costumes, the atmosphere is really festive.”

Last year, the shuffle raised $630,000 nationwide. “Every little bit helps,” says Shiao. “The event doesn’t take a whole lot of time, gets you out in the fresh air, is for a good cause and benefits your health.”

For more information and how to register, visit santashuffle.ca