Saskatchewan community projects face fundraising challenges with inflation [Video]

Volunteer groups across southeast Saskatchewan are dealing with the effects of inflation while trying to raise money for community projects.

“We’ve raised a little over $2 million, looking at the building here today that’s basically all spent. We pretty much need another $1 million to finish the inside,” explained David Harris, referring to Yorkton Brick Mill Heritage Society’s new Interpretive Cultural Centre.

“There’s no plumbing, there’s no electricity. The floor is in the building, but we’re hoping to raise another $1 million to finish the project.”

The not-for-profit started fundraising for the project back in 2021. Although they have received donations from individuals and businesses in the community, along with federal grants worth over $800,000, the group said they are still short to completion because of production costs.

“The cost of materials, sub-trades have all exploded, as we’re aware from other projects,” expressed the group’s president Larry Pearen.

“We’re disappointed …