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Local businesses support Habitat for Humanity’s online auction

Habitat For Humanity Vancouver Island North needs your bid.

To help achieve its goal of building more affordable homes for families in the region, it’s hosting an online auction called #BidtoBuild.

A number of items will  be up for bids including, it says, “a range of unique experiences, special gifts, and one-of-a-kind treasures donated by local businesses.” 

Bidding opens on July 23rd at 10:00am and closes Aug. 6th at 10:00pm.

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All proceeds go to non-profit’s efforts in building three more homes in Campbell River and two more homes in Courtenay by the end of the year.

Habitat for Humanity VIN is feeling the financial burden of COVID-19. Both their Comox Valley and Campbell River ReStore shut down for over two months, resulting in an estimated loss of over $350,000 in revenue. 

Habitat’s construction projects were also delayed due to the virus, and their fundraising plans cancelled. 

Habitat says luckily, the local business community has stepped up to help in a big way.

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Habitat first connected with the local Chambers of Commerce and BIAs. After gaining the support of the Comox Valley Chamber, Campbell River Chamber, Downtown Courtenay BIA, Comox BIA, and the Downtown Campbell River BIA, they decided to move forward.

“Truthfully, we were nervous about asking our community to help, as we know many businesses are facing similar challenges to us, and that had to be respected. However, we also know that recovering from COVID, for this community, also means taking care of others,” said Karen McKinnon, Habitat’s family services manager.

McKinnon describes the overwhelming support of the business community as “heartening, but not surprising.” 

On top of the many businesses that donated gift cards or goods to the auction, Cloutier Matthews and Temprite Climate Solutions both came on as presenting sponsors.

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Habitat says the online auction has something for everyone. 

This includes gift cards at varied price points, to ReStore treasures and high-quality items from local stores. 

You can also find what Habitat calls “special experiences,” such as the opportunity to design a flavour with Blue Spruce Ice Cream, eat lunch at the Mill Cafe once a week courtesy of donor Daryl Robbins, or soar above the glacier in a helicopter courtesy of Pacific Marine.

Individuals or businesses who want to make a donation to the auction can contact McKinnon at [email protected]

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Those interested in supporting Habitat for Humanity’s affordable housing projects can register in advance for the auction by visiting habitatnorthisland.com/bidtobuild.

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