Businesses Pledge More Than $100K In Support Of Affordable Housing For Bala Families

Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North (OGN) and local partners are tackling the affordable housing crisis in the Township of Muskoka Lakes one build at a time.

The business community in Muskoka Lakes has generously come together to pledge $115,343 of Gift-in-Kind donations, in support of the OGN’s affordable semi-detached homes, for Habitat’s build project at 1016 Elm Street in Bala. These energy-efficient,
universally accessible units which will become home to two area families, are set to be completed by Christmas of this year.

“Seeing these businesses come together in partnership is the true spirit of Community,” says OGN CEO Kimberley Woodcock, “Twelve local companies have donated critical

We build strength, stability and self-reliance. services and products – everything from grading, excavation, and transportation to framing, electric, heating, fixturing, and window and doors. These gifts are transformative, for the families we serve, and the local community.”

Habitat extends its gratitude for the abundant generosity of Air Source Home Comfort, Brent Quarries, Fixtures Plumbing and Hardware, Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery, Muskoka Lumber, Muskoka Window and Door, New Start Kitchens, Phoenix Building Components, Rheem, Sahanatien Haulage, Sifft Electric, and Weismiller Timber Mart. “We have always strived to help out our local community and give back as much as possible,” says Dave Weismiller, of long-time local business, Weismiller Timber Mart. “When the opportunity arose to help out with the Habitat for Humanity build here in Bala, Timber Mart was thrilled to be a part of it. It has been a pleasure to work with the Habitat team, and we look forward to working with them in the future.” Shawn Donaldson of Muskoka Lumber echoes Weismiller, “We’re pleased to help, and encourage other contractors in the area to pitch in.”

When it comes to building communities, every gift of products and services can make a difference. These donations help Habitat for Humanity be more efficient and keep building costs manageable enabling the organization to stretch each donor dollar further.
Woodcock adds, “This truly is the realization of our mission of bringing communities together to help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable housing. And we are so very grateful.”

Applications to become a partner family for the Bala homes are currently being accepted on the Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North Website. Businesses who are interested in contributing monetary or Gift-In-Kind donations should contact
donate@habitatgatewaynorth.com.