The 4th Annual Lehigh Acres Rain Barrel Painting Contest is a unique way to help seniors in need who are struggling to pay their water bills
The Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA), Lehigh Community Services, and Lehigh Acres Senior Center are excited to announce the 4th Annual Lehigh Acres Rain Barrel Painting Contest! This unique program not only promotes water conservation but also provides art therapy for local seniors, with the proceeds directly benefiting seniors struggling to pay their water utility bills. It’s a win, win, win!
This year’s theme is: “Cherish Every Drop.”
“What makes this contest so meaningful is that Lehigh Acres seniors are stepping up to support fellow seniors who are struggling with their water bills,” said Rae Nicely, Executive Director of the Lehigh Acres Senior Center.
The contest kicks off on April 21, 2025 – which coincides with the same week as Earth Day. Seniors will paint their barrels from April 21-24. The winners of the contest will be announced during a special luncheon on April 24th at the Lehigh Acres Senior Center. Visa gift cards will be awarded to the top three winners! Once the contest concludes, the painted barrels will be auctioned off, with all proceeds going to help local seniors through a program managed by Lehigh Community Services.
“Last year we raised $5,700 between sponsorships and auction proceeds,” said Donna Lizotte, Community Service Representative for FGUA. “That money was given to Lehigh Community Services who identified and helped seniors who were struggling to pay their monthly water bills. This year, we hope to raise $6,000.”
There are 20 rain barrels available for this year’s contest. After painting and judging, the barrels will be displayed at the Lehigh Acres Senior Center and online at 32auctions.com. This auction website allows anyone to see these works of art and bid on them to purchase. Bidding will take place April 28- May 2nd.
Before the painting can commence, each barrel will be cleaned, sanded, and primed, which can be a difficult and time-consuming process. “We are thrilled to have the East Lee Leadership Academy, Jr. ROTC cadets and Boy Scout Troop 11 donate their time to the program by helping to prep the rain barrels ahead of the contest. Rain barrel prep will take place on April 12th,” said Lizotte.
How to Get Involved:
- Local seniors interested in participating or businesses looking to sponsor can contact Donna Lizotte at (239) 368-1615, Ext. 1211 or email donna.lizotte@fgua.com.
- Signup sheets are also available at the Lehigh Acres Senior Center. Register by April 7th.
Participants may work solo or in teams. Rain barrels will be provided, and art supplies will be available for those painting at the Senior Center. Sponsorship opportunities are still open for local businesses wanting to support this impactful program.
