A couple from Rideau Ferry, ON are upping the ante for those wishing to make a contribution to the LoveSong seniors accommodation project before the end of 2018.

Dave and Ann Trick, a philanthropic couple from eastern Ontario that visit Prince Edward County in the summer months have been struck by the efforts of LoveSong organizers to turn the former Pinecrest Memorial Elementary School in Bloomfield into a 50 unit affordable housing and community hub complex.

LoveSong project lead Joy Vervoort said the Trick family have been long time visitors to the county, enjoying the natural beauty and the many cultural and culinary activities in the region.

“They were deeply touched by the vision of LoveSong and what it represents to the community and the people living here in Prince Edward County,” Vervoort told the Gazette.

An added incentive to those considering financially supporting the LoveSong vision has been brought forth by the Dave and Trick Family Foundation.

The Foundation is pledging to match private donations to LoveSong, dollar for dollar up to a total of $100,000. This means every dollar received from a private donor will be doubled during the campaign which is matching gifts made between November 1 and December 31, 2018.

Vervoort said the former Pinecrest property is undergoing a second phase of standard environmental testing prior to the transfer of the site from the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board and into the hands of the municipality.

Vervoort believes if all requirements fall into place, the facility could be ready for occupancy by early 2021.

While the organization continues to ramp up governance operations, the County of Prince Edward will continue to serve as a vehicle to collect charitable contributions and issue receipts.

Last month, the Committee of the whole voted to deem the LoveSong Seniors Housing and Community Hub a “Project of Community Interest” for the purposes of issuing official income tax receipts while the not-for-profit organization develops its bylaws and makes it application to the Canada Revenue Agency.

To donate to LoveSong and receive a receipt, donors are asked to make their cheque or money order payable to: “The Corporation of the County of Prince Edward” and write “LoveSong” on the memo line.

Donations can be dropped off at Shire Hall or mailed to: LoveSong, 240 Main Street, Bloomfield, ON K0K 1G0.