Bad Ski Suit Party in Ellicottville Raises Winter Clothing and Funds for Local Charities

Local

Mar 11

Retro ski fashion, generous hearts, and a lively night at Madigan’s combined for a meaningful cause during February 28th’s Bad Ski Suit Party & Winter Clothing Drive, hosted by Snowbelt Cannabis. The event invited guests to dust off their most outrageous vintage ski suits and bring along gently used winter clothing to donate to local organizations. The result was an evening that was equal parts throwback party and community fundraiser… and by all accounts, a big success.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees, the drive collected a wide variety of winter essentials, including jackets, snowpants, hats, gloves, sweatshirts, and other cold-weather gear. The donations were delivered to two local programs that help area residents stay warm during Western New York’s long winters: the Caring Closet at Ellicottville Central School and the Little Valley United Methodist Church, both of which distribute clothing to families in need.

“We wanted to take a moment to say thank you to everyone who supported our Bad Ski Suit Party Winter Clothing Drive,” said Snowbelt co-owner Ashley Baron. “Both the Caring Closet and the Little Valley Methodist Church were low on warm clothing, so it was amazing to see people come together and help support our community.”

The evening also featured raffle prizes donated by local businesses and supporters. Through the raffle, organizers raised $400, which will be split between Celebration of Canine Lives Sanctuary and Empire Animal Rescue Society, two organizations dedicated to animal welfare.

Baron and her business partner, Ryan Peterson, have made community involvement a cornerstone of Snowbelt Cannabis. Hosting a charitable event in Ellicottville - a town they spend plenty of time in both professionally and personally - felt like a natural extension of that commitment.

“Doing things for your community doesn’t always have to be something big,” Baron said. “Sometimes it’s the smaller efforts that add up over time and make a real difference. It can be hard to find the time in the day, but we’re always happy to find little ways to help those around us and bring people together.”

Baron also expressed gratitude to Madigan’s, which hosted the event and helped bring the night together, as well as to the many local sponsors who contributed raffle items.

In the end, the Bad Ski Suit Party proved that a little creativity, a lot of community spirit, and a dash of neon nostalgia can go a long way toward helping neighbors in need stay warm through the winter months. To learn more about Snowbelt Cannabis, follow them on social media (@Snowbelt Canna) and visit snowbeltcannabis.com.