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Hot chocolate and park passes are up for grabs as the Saskatoon Optimist Club asks the public to pitch in to build the $5.5 million Optimist Hill winter park.

A month after the city administration approved its fundraising plan, the Optimist Club has launched a 10-day capital campaign on social media, asking the public for money for the first time.

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People who donate by Christmas Day will receive perks based on how much they give. These range from free hot chocolate during opening hours for a $25 donation to pre-opening event passes and lift tickets for those who donate more than $100.

Anthony Thoen, a snowboarding enthusiast who’s helping spearhead the public fundraising campaign, said he’s thrilled with how many people are pitching in.

He said many donors, like him, believe there’s a shortage of opportunities for winter activities in the city and want to see that changed.

“The awareness has been huge,” he said.