A local building company is challenging Chatham-Kent residents to help support local homelessness initiatives during the coldest months of the year.
Maple City Homes is challenging the community to raise $100,000 to help homeless individuals this winter. For every $3 raised in Chatham-Kent, they'll match with a $1 donation, up to a maximum of $25,000.
“We’re challenging our tradespeople and suppliers to keep up with CK," said Maple City Homes General Manager Trevor Mailloux. "If the community raises $75,000 this holiday season, we’ll make it an even $100,000 with a $25,000 donation. We’re home builders, but we know there are a lot of people out there experiencing homelessness, and we want to help in any way we can."
The goal of the challenge is to support groups and organizations that provide services and resources to the homeless in Chatham-Kent on a daily basis.
United Way of Chatham-Kent CEO Steve Pratt said although the winter months are usually challenging for homeless individuals, the pandemic has made matters worse.
“Homelessness has always existed in Chatham-Kent, but it has grown significantly since March, and we need a lot of volunteers, resources, and help to make sure that no one is left behind," Pratt said. "There are currently upwards of 200 individuals experiencing homelessness in our community. We are supporting groups like R.O.C.K. Missions, The Sandwich Guys, and Chatham Hope Haven so that they can continue to do outreach and make connections with our friends on the streets.”
Anyone who wants to learn more information about the challenge can do so by clicking here.