After not winning the grand prize of $250,000 in arena repairs from Kraft Hockeyville, Enderby is still hoping for some financial support from the local community.
Looking to ride the wave of momentum that the Hockeyville campaign gave Enderby, a GoFundMe has been set up, in an effort to raise funds to replace the arena’s failed refrigeration system.
Angie Clowry, who was the team leader of Lumby’s 2016 Hockeyville win, and cheerleader in Enderby’s, launched the GoFundMe, with a goal of $10,000 set.
“While we came up a finalist with a $25,000 cash prize, my goal is to help raise more cash alongside the arena and curling rink supporters,” she said. “All funds raised will go to the City of Enderby for the purposes of repairing the refrigeration system and obtaining a grant to complete other needed improvements to keep the facility operational.”
The $25,000 given to the community for being a finalist dwarf what will be needed to replace all the major components of the arena, as it is estimated to cost more than $2,000,000.
“Enderby has been saving for a local contribution towards a grant to replace major components at its arena, including the roof, floor, and brine lines, all of which are aging and failing,” Clowry added. “Due to the sudden failure of the refrigeration system, the Enderby Arena will use its long-term savings to complete the urgent repairs immediately.”
The Enderby Rink and Curling Club has been shut down since January, cutting the season short for numerous groups, and impacting the local economy.
“The closure of the Enderby arena has been devastating for community members and the broader region,” the City of Vernon said in a press release. “The Enderby Arena is home to minor, adult, and senior hockey, public skating, fitness programs, and many other activities. The Enderby Curling Rink shares the refrigeration plant and has also been shut down.”
To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/enderby-arena-fundraiser.
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