Peterborough, ON — Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) raised $15,000 at its third annual HomeGrown: A Habitat Garden Disco Fundraiser, presented by RBC and held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Chemong Lodge. Funds raised from the event will directly support the organization’s local affordable housing builds across the region.
Approximately 100 community members gathered at Chemong Lodge’s stunning lakeside setting for a sold-out evening that transformed the venue into a vibrant garden disco experience. Guests were welcomed into an immersive atmosphere featuring disco-themed décor, sparkling lighting, and a lively outdoor setting along the water. The evening included Chemong Lodge’s signature garden grazing installation, passed and stationed canapés, and dishes prepared on the smokehouse Argentinian grill, along with curated beverages and cocktails. A silent auction, live music, and interactive elements throughout the garden added to the celebratory atmosphere.
Homeowner stories shared during the evening highlighted the impact of affordable housing in the region. Matthew and Abby, a future Habitat family from Norwood, spoke about their experience in the early stages of the program as they complete their required 500 volunteer hours. Once their home is complete, they will move in with their children as part of Habitat PKR’s single-family home build in Norwood.
Guests also heard from Gwen, a single mother who shared her experience navigating housing instability in Peterborough’s rental market. Gwen and her son will soon move into a condominium unit at Leahy’s Lane through Habitat PKR’s buyback program, which helps ensure long-term affordability for local homeowners.
During the event, Habitat PKR shared updates on its upcoming development pipeline, with plans to bring 149 affordable homes through projects across Peterborough, the Kawarthas, and Haliburton County. These developments include three new single-family homes in Norwood, 40 condominium units at Keystone Court on Lansdowne Street in Peterborough, a partnership 35 unit development with Places for People in Haliburton, supportive shared living housing through Our Daughters’ Home, and a large 64 condominium development in Haliburton that will include new childcare spaces for local families.
Habitat PKR confirmed that land has been secured for key projects, strong partnerships are in place, and a clear development plan has been established. Continued community support will be essential to advancing these builds and bringing more affordable homeownership opportunities to local families.
“HomeGrown is a meaningful opportunity for our community to come together in support of affordable housing,” said Susan Zambonin, CEO of Habitat PKR. “We are grateful to share updates on our upcoming projects and to celebrate the impact we are already seeing in the lives of local families. With land secured, strong partners in place, and a clear vision ahead, continued community support will help us move these homes forward.”
As presenting sponsor, RBC played an important role in supporting the event and Habitat PKR’s mission to increase access to affordable homeownership in the region.
“RBC supports causes in the community that are meaningful to our clients and employees. Addressing adequate housing in Peterborough & Kawartha Region is important to us all,” said Leyna Rottboll, Vice-President, Commercial Banking, RBC. “We enjoyed a wonderful evening with business and community leaders celebrating the important work of Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region.”
Habitat PKR extends sincere thanks to all event sponsors for their support, including Floortrends, Chemong Lodge, Peterborough Axe Club, Kerr’s Home Products, Lakeshore Designs, Braun Custom Builds, Habitat for Humanity Canada, Cambium, Sunbelt Rentals, and Kingdon Timber Mart.
HomeGrown continues to be a signature fundraising event for Habitat PKR, bringing together community members, partners, and supporters to help advance affordable housing in the region.
