Raise the Roof raised $34,000 for Habitat for Humanity Prince Edward-Hastings (Habitat PEH) this week.
On Wednesday, the Belleville community showed up in full force, filling Little Texas Bar & Grill with energy and enthusiasm to “Raise the Roof” with more than 350 tickets sold. Even amid winter weather warnings, the high-energy, music-style fundraiser, presented by Harmony Homes, raised $34,000 to help provide affordable homeownership opportunities for local families.
Funds raised will support Habitat PEH’s ongoing build efforts, including the Habitat Village project at 93 Dundas Street East, helping hardworking families achieve safe, affordable and stable housing. Affordable homeownership provides children with the foundation they need to thrive, succeed academically, and build brighter futures — strengthening the entire community for generations to come.
The night kicked off with local favourite Stone Orchard, who had the crowd on their feet with classic hits everyone knows and loves. Headlining the evening was Road Apples, Canada’s premier tribute to The Tragically Hip, delivering an unforgettable performance that had guests dancing and singing along from start to finish. A special thank you also goes to Avery the DJ, who kept the energy high during intermission and before and after the bands performed, ensuring the party never skipped a beat.
Beyond the music, attendees embraced the spirit of Habitat PEH with interactive experiences that brought energy and purpose to the evening. During intermission, participants took part in the lively “Hammer Time” challenge — racing to hammer a nail into a block of wood using their non-dominant hand. The fastest time of the night was an impressive 2.16 seconds, set by Ryan. Guests also signed wood studs that will be used in the construction of a future local Habitat home — a powerful reminder that every community contribution helps build something lasting. Pictures of the studs with signatures and well wishes are taken prior to enclosure of walls and presented to the family in a collage to reflect on for years to come.
“A huge thank you to our community for joining us Wednesday night as we Raised the Roof for our local Habitat for Humanity,” said Tom Streek, CEO of Harmony Homes. “We are so honored to be a part of this event and look forward to celebrating again with you next year.”
Harmony Homes, the event’s Title Sponsor, continues to demonstrate its deep commitment to Habitat PEH’s mission — not only through sponsorship, but through hands-on support in building local Habitat homes.
Habitat PEH extends sincere gratitude to the other sponsors who made the evening possible, Bay of Quinte Mutual Insurance Company, Environmentall Contracting, Quinte Broadcasting, Starboard Communications, Domino’s Pizza (Bay of Quinte), Ontario Truss & Wall, A Plus Electrical, Team Guernsey, City of Belleville, and Black Bear Ridge Golf & Resort. As well, thanks go to Little Texas Bar & Grill for generously providing the venue space, and to Comfort Inn Belleville for accommodating the headlining band.
A final thank you to all the volunteers that showed up to contribute their time for the evening, ensuring attendees were taken care of and all the activities went smoothly. We truly appreciate each and every individual that helps us on the back end to put such a fun night together.
“It was an incredible turnout and a powerful show of community support,” said Hazzem Koudsi, CEO of Habitat PEH. “The success of Raise the Roof will help local families access affordable homeownership and give children the stability they deserve.”
Raise the Roof continues to grow each year — bigger, louder, and more impactful — proving once again that when a community comes together, it can build more than houses. It can build hope.
For more information about Habitat for Humanity Prince Edward-Hastings or to get involved, visit habitatpeh.org.
