Family Promise Mat-Su raising $10,000 to clean up diesel spill at new H.O.P.E. Navigation Center

WASILLA — Family Promise Mat-Su is currently seeking community donations to raise $10,000 to finish a cleanup project involving spilled diesel at the new H.O.P.E. Family Navigation Center property.

Pioneer Christian Fellowship donated the facility to Family Promise. According to Family Promise Mat-Su Executive Director Ginger Bear, a diesel backup generator was discovered with a hole in the tank when the fellowship first acquired the building.

Tutka LLC was commissioned for the cleanup project and recently started removing contaminated soil, but excavation has been on hold to raise additional funds.

Bear said the fellowship had aside funds for the spill cleanup set aside, but the new estimate would have “cleaned out their bank account” so Family Promise opted to do what they do best, raise funds from the community. She said asking for $10,000 is a lot to ask for, but she’s confident they’ll have no trouble meeting their goal.

“We know how to fundraise,” Bear said.

According to Bear, Valley residents and organizations have stepped up in a big way, including a $5,000 pledge from the Lion’s Club. She said they’ve already raised nearly $9,000 and she expecting to cross the threshold any day now.

“This has just been insane. I’ve never raised $10,000 so quickly,” Bear said. “It really just blows my mind how much the community came together. It’s just another opportunity to watch God go. It’s awesome.”

The H.O.P.E. Navigation Center is officially open for business and ready to assist local clients through a range of services. It serves as a multifaceted resource hub offering a variety of services to individuals and families across various levels of need, including child care, computer use for job readiness, evening meals for the homeless, indoor play space during cold weather, and apartment space for disaster relief survivors.

Bear said their overall operations are faring well with an influx of clients utilizing the facility.

“We have people coming in and out of here every day,” Bear said.

Bear said that she doesn’t know how long it will take to finish the cleanup, but she’s thankful for Tutka’s diligent work thus far.

“They’re doing a good job keeping everyone safe,” Bear said.

For more information about Family Promise Mat-Su, call 907-357-6160 or visit fpm-su.com.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com