Barriere Seniors Centre Reopens After Heating Failure, Faces $22,000 Replacement Cost
The Barriere and District Seniors Society has reopened its seniors centre after a heating system failure on December 28, 2025, which led to a week-long closure. A part was acquired to partially fix the aging geothermal heating system, allowing the centre to resume activities on January 6, 2026.
However, a complete replacement of the heating system is necessary, estimated at $22,000. The society has applied for a $17,000 grant from the Lower North Thompson Community Forest Society but remains uncertain about funding.
Regardless of grant outcomes, the society faces $4,400 in costs and has already lost over $2,500 due to the closure, including a canceled bingo fundraiser. The existing geothermal unit is nearly 20 years old, and a new propane furnace will be installed as natural gas is not an option. The society is exploring alternative fundraising methods to offset expenses.
