By Kevin J. Sabo
For the Advance
Like many other organizations that have had to make adjustments due to the ongoing pandemic, Castor’s Paintearth Lodge has had to do the same.
Normally in the spring and fall seasons the Paintearth Lodge holds a tea and bake sale allowing it to raise funds for recreation activities for the residents.
Unfortunately, with the ongoing restrictions amid the global pandemic the fall event was unable to be held, so instead, like everything these days, the Paintearth Lodge went virtual with their fundraising.
Between Nov. 19th to 23rd the recreation department at the Lodge held a virtual auction via their Facebook page. Items up for auction were donated by community businesses and residents.
Not to be left out of the bidding, a table was set up for a Paintearth Lodge residents’ only silent auction, allowing the residents to take part.
In total, over $7,600 was raised, with the money going towards various recreation activities for the residents of the Lodge.
“The money goes towards handi-bus outings, craft supplies, prizes, treats for the holidays, entertainment, decorations, those kinds of things,” said Paintearth Lodge Recreation Director Brenda Kneller.
While the funds raised will go a long way for seniors’ recreation, Kneller did say the residents definitely miss the community coming up to the Lodge to visit.
“We made double the money over the tea,” said Kneller.
“However, it’s nice to have community. It’s nice to have the community up and having tea (with the residents).”
Still, Kneller is thankful for the community support the online auction received.
“There are no words to describe how grateful we are to the community, to the businesses, to families and to the staff for their donations, for their bidding. Without them it wouldn’t have been possible to hold this event and be successful,” said Kneller.