Community members can clink their glasses and support affordable housing in the Peterborough area by attending a special fundraising event hosted by Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR).
“HomeGrown: A Habitat Vineyard Party Fundraiser” takes place on Saturday, June 7 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Rolling Grape Vineyards at 260 County Rd. 2 in Bailieboro.
Proceeds from the second annual event will help more families and individuals in the Peterborough and Kawartha region “build strength, stability and independence through affordable homeownership” according to a media release.
The inaugural sold-out event, “HomeGrown: A Habitat Garden Party Fundraiser” at Northview Gardens in Peterborough on June 1, 2024, raised over $21,500 for Habitat PKR.
“Last year’s HomeGrown fundraiser raised vital funds for affordable housing, and this year we’re aiming even higher with a goal of $25,000,” Holly O’Connor, Habitat PKR’s communications and marketing manager, told kawarthaNOW.
“Every dollar will be invested right back into local Habitat builds, helping 49 more families and individuals in the Peterborough and Kawartha region become homeowners through Habitat’s affordable homeownership model. But none of this is possible without the community’s support,” she said.
“Amid a housing crisis, HomeGrown is a chance for people to come together, enjoy a great night out, and be part of the real, lasting solution for housing we all want to see in our community,” O’Connor added.
On the night of the June 7 fundraiser, which will be emceed by Neil Morton of Cormor Inc., guests will be “whisked away to the sun-drenched shores of the Amalfi Coast during this Italian-inspired soirée, all set against the golden glow of a vineyard sunset.”
“Community is everything — it’s the glue that holds us together,” said Morton. “I love seeing what happens when people show up for something that really matters. Safe, affordable homes don’t just change lives today, they create stability for generations. So when Habitat PKR asked me to be part of HomeGrown, it was an easy yes.”
Attendees will enjoy a gourmet meal paired with Rolling Grape’s award-winning wines, take in live entertainment, and hear stories of transformation, all while supporting Habitat PKR’s vision — “a world where everyone has a safe, decent, and affordable place to call home.”
Attendees will learn about Habitat PKR’s upcoming build projects, including the organization’s first-ever 3D-printed home in Fraserville (built in partnership with Cormer Inc.), a partnership with the non-profit organization Our Daughters’ Home to build a duplex in in Peterborough’s East City for seven adult women with special needs, and a 41-unit condominium in Peterborough.
Altogether, these will create 49 new affordable housing units in the region.
“At a time when affordable homeownership is more out of reach than ever, HomeGrown is more than just a party — it’s a powerful step towards essential change,” said Susan Zambonin, CEO of Habitat PKR, in a statement. “We’re bringing people together to celebrate progress, and to raise critical funds needed to build a future where everyone in our community has a safe, decent place to call home.”
Supported by RBC and Floortrends, the evening will also feature a silent auction. Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to get involved by donating items or experiences.
Individual tickets are $135 per person, and $750 for a table of six. For more information and tickets, visit habitatpkr.ca/community/events/homegrown-a-vineyard-party-fundraiser/.
Habitat PKR is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to mobilize volunteers and community partners in building affordable housing and promoting affordable homeownership. Habitat gives a “hand-up” not a “hand-out” to lower income families by offering no down payment and geared-to-income monthly payments.
Since 2002, Habitat PKR has helped 96 local families secure affordable homeownership.
