Lakefield United Church launches fundraiser to establish new Community Comfort Centre
Lakefield United Church has announced the launch of a major community fundraising campaign to raise $27,500 in support of establishing a Community Comfort Centre, a safe, welcoming space designed to provide warmth, power, connection, and essential support during local emergencies.
The new Centre will be located at Lakefield United Church, 47 Regent Street, and will operate as a reliable daytime refuge during winter storms, heat waves, prolonged power outages, and other disaster events.
The congregation of Lakefield United Church has already demonstrated its commitment by pledging the first $25,000 and a further $22,500 of congregational fundraising toward the overall $75,000 project cost. With $27,500 left to raise, the church is inviting residents, businesses, and community partners to help bring this vital initiative to life.
A Critical Community Need
Recent extreme weather, including the ice storm that left many Lakefield and surrounding area households without power for days, underscored the urgent need for a dependable, accessible comfort centre. Families struggled to stay warm, seniors lacked a safe refuge, and many residents sought places to access drinking water and charge phones and medical devices.
“Every contribution helps ensure that when the power goes out, our doors, and our hearts, stay open.”
“Events like this are becoming more frequent,” said representatives of Lakefield United Church. “Every contribution helps ensure that when the power goes out, our doors, and our hearts, stay open.”
What the Community Comfort Centre Will Offer
Once established, the Centre will provide:
Warm Shelter in Winter - A heated space with hot refreshments during storms and outages.
Cool Refuge in Summer - A climate-controlled environment for vulnerable residents.
Power & Connectivity - Charging stations for phones and medical devices, plus Wi-Fi access.
Clean Water & Essential Supplies - Comfort items for immediate needs.
Caring Volunteers - A welcoming team ready to offer support and connection.
How the Community Can Help
Funds raised will support the installation of:
Emergency backup generator power.
Heating and cooling upgrades.
Accessible, comfortable gathering spaces.
Charging stations, internet connectivity, and essential supplies.
Supporters may donate at various sponsorship levels, from Community Champion to Friend of the Centre, or make a contribution of any amount.
Donation & Contact Information
Donations can be made by:
E-transfer: lkflduc@nexicom.net
Cheque: Payable to Lakefield United Church
VISA, Mastercard, or Debit
Those interested in sponsoring, volunteering at the Centre, or contributing in-kind donations are encouraged to contact the church at 705-652-3126 or lkflduc@nexicom.net.