Local Couple Given Gift Of A Lifetime

PRINCE GEORGE- It’s something most people could only dream of, living mortgage free in a brand new home. That’s exactly what Chris and Amanda Sopel will be doing sometime next year. They were nominated by friends and family earlier this year for the Pay it Forward, Welcome Home Initiative led by Ridgeline Roofing. They were announced as the winners at the Cougars home opener last week.  “It was a flood of emotions,” said Chris, “it was a million pounds of stress off the shoulders.”

The Sopels have been renting for years. It has been a struggle to save money for a home of their own as Amanda has had to quit work due to her health. Despite that, they have done whatever they could to make ends meet and that’s why they believe their family nominated them. “I have Crohn’s disease and that’s put a lot of financial strain on us,” said Amanda, “no matter what we faced we always kept a positive attitude about things and kept persevering… trying to get ahead in life.”

Ridgeline Roofing and a handful of local tradespeople hope to break ground on the new home next Spring, with a goal of getting Chris, Amanda, and their two children into the house by the end of the construction season. “I am forever grateful for it,” added Chris. Ridgeline Roofing owner, Josh Eiswerth, says they are still fundraising and will hold events throughout the winter. For more information on how to help visit the Pay it Forward, Welcome Home Initiative Facebook page.