This project was founded by the Lieskovsky family (Dave, Viv and Heather) in 2016 in response to an increase in Penticton’s homeless community. V2A is Penticton’s postal code and is a symbolic reference to homelessness. If someone doesn't have a postal code, then they likely don’t have a home. The V2A Project consists of two distinct fundraisers that focus on the needs of those less fortunate in Penticton.
Homes for the Homeless This project started as a way to raise funds for the local Salvation Army, to help provide ongoing support and comfort for those living on the streets, especially during the cold winter months. The idea was to make small ornaments in the shape of a house from recycled material and sell them by donation in Nov/Dec each year to help raise funds and awareness of the homeless problem in Penticton. The first year, 20 little houses were made out of recycled building materials (wood, flooring material, leftover paint). They were offered for sale for a minimum donation of $5, in the hopes of raising $100. They sold out immediately. That year, 200 ornaments were made and sold. After the second year, the recycled building materials ran out, so house-shaped ornaments were made out of recycled clay and donated glazes. In 2020, in response to the Covid 19 pandemic, the ornaments were heart-shaped, with the image of a house embossed into them. More than 550 were made in 2020, bringing the 5 year fundraising total to more than $14,000.00, all of which has been donated to the Salvation Army.
Help for the Hungry In 2021, a project was added to help the local Salvation Army with their mid-year Food Bank stock. Using similar house-themed imagery, garden markers were created using recycled clay and glazes. The garden markers, which are reusable from year to year, are available for a minimum $2 donation. Again, all proceeds go to Penticton's Salvation Army. In addition to raising funds, this project helps raise awareness of the need for garden-fresh fruit and vegetable donations to the Food Bank. Locals are encouraged to donate their excess garden produce to the Food Bank to help those who require the assistance of this service. The garden markers will be available for a minimum donation of $2 each, at Bartier Bros. Winery in Oliver, https://bartierbros.com/, starting April 2, 2021 while supplies last.
The success of the V2A Project is possible due to the generosity of so many, for which our family is very grateful. For more information, contact vlieskovsky336@gmail.com
