COMMUNITY – Heffley Creek Hall just got cooler – literally

Since its construction in 1972, the Heffley Creek Hall has served as the heart of the community. It’s nearly impossible to find someone in Kamloops who hasn’t attended an event there—especially the legendary “Heffley Creek Stomp.”

Though ceiling fans and extra insulation were added about eight years ago, the masonry block construction meant the hall could still get uncomfortably warm during those sweltering Kamloops summers. But not anymore!

Thanks to a series of successful grant applications, the Heffley Creek Community Recreation Association (HCCRA)—the non-profit group that owns and operates the hall—has finally installed central air conditioning.

Association secretary/treasurer and dedicated grant writer Deb McDougall-Bergstrand shares, “With the rising costs of everything over the past five years, our rental and fundraising income barely covers the essentials. Large upgrades require grants—and a lot of crossed fingers. I’ve been dreaming of getting air conditioning for years, and I’m thrilled it’s finally happened!”

If you haven’t visited the hall recently, you’re in for a treat. Along with the new A/C, there have been several cosmetic improvements: fresh paint, new ceiling swag, and backdrops in the main hall. The kitchen has also been upgraded with all commercial-grade stainless steel equipment.

Safety has been a priority too—this year, the HCCRA hired a company to level uneven sidewalk blocks at the entrance, eliminating what had become a serious tripping hazard.

Whether you’re hosting a child’s birthday party, a celebration of life, a family reunion, a holiday dinner, or a wedding, the Heffley Creek Hall remains a welcoming, affordable, and now refreshingly cool venue for all occasions.

For more information on this venue, please contact HeffleyCreekHall@gmail.com.

— Deb McDougall-Bergstrand