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Metchosin residents help each other out

Local business continues to drive Metchosin Community House programming
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Metchosin Community Association Services Auction co-hosts Stacey Ross and Mike Van de Water detail an item up for bids

Ron Tenhove said there has never been a question about local support for the Metchosin Community Association Services Auction.

The organizer of the annual fundraiser said donations from dozens of local businesses helped raise more than $5,000 for important programming in the community.

“Right from the beginning … It was all about local business helping out, I don’t think there is any question,” he said. “They’ve been unbelievable. If it wasn’t for that, we would have a really tough time (covering the costs) of our programs.”

The money helps keep the Metchosin Community House going and provide for a list of activities that includes senior services and the Parents & Tots program, where young parents connect and support each other while their children meet and play. That initiative ran out of government grant funds two years ago and Tenhove said the auction helps fill the financial gap with the help of business owners, including Debbie Cooper.

“The Metchosin Community House, it’s something for everyone in the community. I brought my daughters here when they were toddlers, and I am here now for the 4H club for the kids,” the owner of Metchosin Soap Works said. “It’s great for seniors; it’s so many great things for everyone and something the community really needs.”

Cooper, who donated a certificate for a soap-making workshop, said she donated services from her business because she and her two daughters were once in the Parents & Tots program, benefiting from programming and services that still exist today.

“It feels like a home away from home. It’s very comforting to come here, and welcoming, so it’s a great place,” she said.

Fundraising for the House continues this month with the annual Mighty Garage Sale. People can bring items for donation to the House (4430 Happy Valley Rd.) from May 21 to 27 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The garage sale itself happens May 28 and 29 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the grounds next door.

alim@goldstreamgazette.com



Arnold Lim

About the Author: Arnold Lim

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