The Bayfield and Area Food Bank is raising money to help renovate what should become its home for the next decade and beyond.
Council for the Municipality of Bluewater has directed the town's CAO to negotiate a 10-year lease with the food bank for the municipally-owned property at 2 Jane Street.
The food bank is currently operating out of dressing rooms in the arena, but will need to move out by September when hockey returns. The former food bank home was sold to make way for a medical practice.
Representatives for the food bank said they were very appreciative of council's offer, noting that some changes would need to be made in order to retrofit the Public Works building into a safe and functional space that meets their needs.
Some of the suggestions included widening the main door for wheelchair accessibility, putting in a drop ceiling and walls to help lower heating costs, and updating electrical work.
Food Bank President Claire Trepanier said they're in the process of having contractors conduct a full assessment of what needs to be done and will present the plan to council at a later date.
However, they estimate it will cost close to $100,000 to renovate the space, so the Food Bank has already begun fundraising efforts with the launch of a CanadaHelps page.
All donations over $25 will receive a tax receipt.