Barrie homeowners looking to tackle projects around the house while supporting a local cause will have the chance later this month as Barrie Families Unite hosts its third annual Home Sweet Home fundraiser.
The event takes place Oct. 22 at Traditions Banquet Hall and will feature both live and silent auctions, dinner, entertainment and a range of home-related products and services up for bid. Organizers are aiming to raise $25,000 in support of the organization's work through the Give Back Rack, a social enterprise that helps local families access essential goods.
According to Barrie Families Unite, Home Sweet Home has grown steadily since its launch and is returning this year with a new feature designed to attract even more participation.
"One of the neat things is our silent auction is going live four days prior to the actual event," said Nikki Glenn. "So people are gonna get a sneak preview and be able to bid on items before the actual night of the event."
The fundraiser's auction lineup includes winter tires, custom woodworking services, home improvement packages, landscaping, painting, window washing and other homeowner-focused offerings. Organizers say attendees can expect both practical items and lifestyle experiences.
Among the featured live auction items are winter tire packages from CM Mobile Tire, a $3,700 custom-build gift certificate from Home Auctions Made Easy and a $2,000 certificate toward services from Apex Impressions.
"We've got painters, we have window washing, we have landscapers. Basically, if you own a home, you're gonna find a good deal October 22nd," Glenn said.
The evening will also include live music, dinner provided by Traditions Banquet Hall and a professional auctioneer leading the live bidding. Organizers expect between 120 and 150 people to attend.
Nikki Glahn and Rich Bullis of Barrie Families Unite sit down with Barrie 360's Julius Hern to discuss this year's Home Sweet Home fundraising event...
Proceeds from the event will support the Give Back Rack, which is operated by Barrie Families Unite. The organization works with community agencies to provide referred clients with free access to clothing, household goods and other essential items in a retail-style environment.
"Barry Families Unite is a registered charity here in our community and we now own and operate the Give Back Rack," Glenn explained. "Our mandate is providing the opportunity for everyone in our community to have dignified access to essential needs."
The event is designed to be beneficial for both attendees and the businesses that contribute auction items, organizers say.
"I feel like this event is a win-win-win for everybody," Glenn said. "For homeowners coming and wanting to decide if they want to buy a ticket, $50 for a ticket, you're getting fed, and any item you buy, whether it's on the silent auction or live auction, you're not paying HST."
Tickets are $50 and include dinner. Organizers are encouraging homeowners, community supporters and anyone interested in finding deals on home-related goods and services to attend while helping raise funds for local families in need.
