A Go Fund Me campaign has been launched to save the popular Etobicoke Lakeshore Santa Claus Parade that is danger of grounding Santa, Rudolph and hundreds of volunteers.

Members of the Etobicoke Lakeshore Santa Claus Parade 2022 launched an online Facebook fundraiser on October 10. Only about $100 had been raised by October 20.

Parade organizers said they have been “bringing the magic of the holidays to Etobicoke Lakeshore and beyond,” as one of the largest non-profit community parades in the country since 1991. It is now in its 31st year.

The popular 2022 parade takes place on December 3 at 10 a.m.

“At this point, the future of the parade is in danger. We are 100% volunteer-run and are working hard to make this a success, but we really need your help to raise $30,000 to run the parade,” according to the post.

They said it cost $30,000 to run the parade in 2019 “and we know that figure will be higher this year.”

Organizers said the funds are usually raised from community donations and business partnerships.

“Unfortunately, this year some of our community partners will be unable to support us as much as in the past,” the post warned.

“Two years of COVID has seriously depleted our resources. Our fixed expenses include float storage and utilities that still needed to be paid.”

Area residents love the parade and organizers estimate up to 70,000 people attend the event yearly.

“Santa’s elves are looking forward to bringing back the sounds of the bands, schools and community groups walking, colourful characters and of course the floats,” a poster said.

“We are even planning for a new float this year if funds can be raised to complete it. Please help bring the smiles back to everyone’s faces.”

The parade which attracted thousands of residents yearly was created by the late long-time New Toronto businessman and volunteer Peter Ramos.

You are asked to donate at a Go Fund Me page today: https://gofund.me/28cdfa03