January Cash Draw Kick Starts Van Fundraising Efforts

Community Living Kirkland Lake kicked off a fundraising campaign by making a few people a little richer.  The agency’s January cash draw handed out prizes each weekday in January resulting in 21 people winning a cash prize ranging from $25 to $500.  Mary Rozich of Kirkland Lake was the big winner, having her name drawn on the final day for $500.

Kim Harvey, Residential Supervisor at Community Living Kirkland Lake presents Helen Rozich with a cheque for $500. Mrs. Rozich was the big winner in the draw that awarded $2000 in prizes to 22 lucky winners in January.

The fundraising campaign will allow the agency to purchase a new van to meet the needs of the individuals supported by the agency.

“We currently have four wheelchair accessible vans that operate out of our group homes.  These purpose built vehicles are very expensive to maintain and are not very fuel efficient,” says Ron Arbuckle, Community Living Kirkland Lake board member. “We are now looking to purchase a 12 passenger van that can be used when a wheelchair van isn’t required.”

The agency would use the new vehicle to provide transportation to activities at its day program, Community Living Skills, as well as to transport individuals to medical appointments out of town.

 The agency’s funding comes from Ontario’s Ministry of Community and Social Services.  Transportation, however, is not funded by the Ministry.

Community Living Kirkland Lake Executive Director Heather Topliss says it’s unfortunate but the agency is trying hard to purchase a vehicle that will meet our needs and preserve the vehicles they currently own.

 “A full size wheelchair van costs approximately $90 000,” says Topliss. “Right now we are using them for all our outings, which puts an excessive amount of wear and tear on these vehicles.  We believe that by purchasing a 12 passenger van, at about half the cost, we will ultimately extend the life of the four vehicles we currently own.”

The January cash draw and other fundraising currently place the agency’s efforts at $12,000.  The goal is to raise $40 000. Community Living Kirkland Lake is a registered charity and all donations are tax deductible.