Helping a Family Stay Home for Christmas

Thursday, 13 December 2012 at 10:06

A 13-hour-long fundraiser continues in Ingersoll this afternoon. It's in an effort to assist a local family, and keep them in their home for Christmas. Christine Johnstone of Centreville has fallen on some hard times, following the passing of her husband in June 2011. The mother of two says the value of her home has been drastically reduced, because of the nearby Walker landfill proposal. "I went to access some equity in my home, and when it was appraised, I found out that I had lost a third of what my property was worth. It's scary situation, especially for someone who is having some financial difficulties and is widowed." But Johnstone has plenty of hope and support. This morning, the fundraiser received an anonymous $5000 donation. It continues until 9 tonight at Hurley's Independent Grocer in Ingersoll with festive food, music, a silent auction and displays. The auction includes a silent auction that's been boosted by the donation of an authentic, autographed Bobby Orr jersey (in photo). It was donated by Jim Winn, an Ingersoll sports fan, who read about the family's plight, and decided to do something "serious" to help. Karen Paton-Evans with Oxford People Against the Landfill says that item will be open for bids until the end of next week. "We know that people will want more opportunity to put their bids in, and we'll be accepting bids until 7PM on Friday, December 21st on the jersey." Here's more details on today's fundraiser: The public is invited to drop into the Home for Christmas festive event any time between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m., Thurs., Dec. 13 in the Community Room at Hurley?s Your Independent Grocer at 273 King St. W. in Ingersoll. Santa Claus is coming at 2:30 p.m. Musical guests Jim Gonder and Kenny Archer perform from 1:30 to 2:30; and Vicki Gydov from 5 to 5:30 p.m. Hurley?s floral designer Denise shows guests how to create holiday centrepieces from 4 to 5 p.m. Hurley?s Chef Jeff teaches how to make a simplified, sensational feast from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Designer Jim demonstrates table decorating from 11 to 11:15 a.m. and 8 to 8:15 p.m. There is free food and beverages being served throughout the day.