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St. Stephen's is working on a plan to "go green" to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and honor God's call to care for creation. 

The Board has approved a five-part plan to help green our church. The action plan focuses on more efficient heating, windows and lighting, added insulation, and more airtight doors. Action now on these 5 elements would: 
•    reduce our green-house gas emissions an estimated 25%, 
•    reduce our utilities costs (natural gas and electricity combined) an estimated $1700 - $1800, 
•    eliminate the heating liability posed by one 1993 furnace (or optionally, both 1993 furnaces), 
•    provide greater comfort in winter and summer,
•    honour God’s call to care for creation,
•    help the United Church of Canada meet its overall greenhouse gas reduction target of 80% of GHG emissions by 2050.

The total cost of this proposal as of April 1, 2022 is close to $38,000. This cost would be shared between The United Church of Canada Faithful Footprints (FF) and St. Stephen’s United Church (SSUC) at 66% and 33% respectively. FF would provide a grant of $25,500 and SSUC would need to fundraise $12,500. Total annual utility savings would be about $1700.
If we exceed our fundraising target, the Board would consider replacing a second aging gas furnace.
Resources for this proposal are not included in the 2022 budget. The money for the St. Stephen’s portion of the greening improvements would need to come from fundraising and volunteer/staff labour. 

Check out the display on the Creation Care board in the Main Hall which will be updated as we receive donations (by cash, cheque or through the Church website). Donation can be made through your offering, through the Church Office, e-transfer and on the church website and should be marked “Greening Project”.

Would you like a full copy of the detailed greening proposal? This is available through the Church Office in hard copy or by email.