Places for People has launched a seasonal fundraising campaign – birthed when they found out they have to replace an “ancient” oil furnace in one of their properties.
Spokesperson, Sherry Lawr, said starting at the beginning of December, people have been purchasing a ‘degree’ as part of ‘Turn Up the Heat for P4P’.
Lawr said they maintain their properties in the most economical way possible, giving tenants a safe and secure home with the most effective appliances they can provide.
The unexpected cost of the new furnace is $8,450.
“Add that new purchase to the cost to keep the heat and lights on in our units last year and the bill comes to nearly $40,000,” Lawr said.
“While our tenants pay rent that incorporates some of those costs, there is still a deficit at the end of the day. We need your help to ensure we can continue to operate and everyone stays warm this winter and beyond.”
Last year, through the generosity of Haliburton County residents, P4P was able to replace windows in one of its properties. “Together, we raised $13,000, which went a long way to helping that project become a reality.”
Lawr said the goal for this holiday season is to surpass that total and raise $15,000 by Dec. 31.
For $200, people can buy a full degree, or purchase a portion of a degree for less.
“Our aim is to ‘Turn Up the Heat’ to 72 Fahrenheit (room temperature). Places For People now owns and operates 20 affordable units throughout Haliburton County without the support of government grants. Maintaining those properties and supporting our tenants is a daunting task but one we are proud to take on,” Lawr said.
They encourage the public to follow their Facebook and Instagram pages throughout December to track the campaign’s progress. The public can purchase degrees through Canada Helps by going to placesforpeople.ca.
