Woodwynn’s having a yard sale of goods uncovered in cleanup

Woodwynn Farms’ unwanted household and farm-related goods will be on offer today at a yard sale.

The event features items uncovered during a cleanup of the 7789 West Saanich Rd. property. It is being staged by B.C. Housing and will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“We determined that this would be a good opportunity to invite the community to a yard sale and explore interesting items. Proceeds will be reinvested back into the farm,” said an email from B.C. Housing.

Woodwynn Farms was purchased by the province in July for future use as a therapeutic recovery facility for people dealing with substance abuse and mental health challenges. B.C. spent $6.9 million to buy the property and to cover other related costs.

The fate of the historic 78-hectare farm, with its distinctive white barns, was uncertain after a previous nonprofit treatment program at the site collapsed.

The group failed to pay its mortgage and lenders foreclosed.

Cool Aid’s Community Casual Labour Pool workers spent 10 days, starting on Sept. 24, cleaning up the farm, dealing with debris and sorting recyclable items from trash.

Future therapeutic programs at the site will be based on appropriate zoning, and in consultation with the municipality and community partners, B.C. Housing said.

Once programs are set up, would-be participants can apply and will be selected by B.C. Housing and non-profit partners who will be operating the services.