These works of art are now up for bid and all money raised goes to help local seniors who are struggling
Fourteen rain barrels that are now works of art thanks to local seniors are now up for auction to anyone in and around Lehigh Acres who thinks water conservation is important and wants to take one of these rain barrels home. These are the rain barrels that were painted as part of the 4th Annual Lehigh Acres Rain Barrel Painting Contest. This heartwarming event brought together local senior citizens who used their creativity to promote water conservation and raise money for fellow seniors in need.
The event took place the week of May 21. 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!
The event is put on by the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA), Lehigh Community Services, and the Lehigh Acres Senior Center.
This year’s theme, “Cherish Every Drop,” was brought to life through 14 beautifully painted rain barrels—each now available for auction online. The top three artists were honored at a special luncheon held at the Lehigh Acres Senior Center on April 24. Each winner received Visa gift cards in recognition of their talent and heart.
And the winners are:
1st Place: “Sunset Reflection” by Faramarta De La Cruz — a vivid tribute to her home in Cuba, overlooking a glowing sunset.
2nd Place: “River Retreat” by Silvia Carletti — a peaceful, nature-inspired design.
3rd Place: “Save Every Drop” by Kevin Lavarnway — a creative reminder of the importance of water conservation.
Now, the real impact begins. All 14 rain barrels are available for public bidding through May 8 at 32auctions.com/2025rainbarrel. Every dollar raised goes directly to Lehigh Community Services, which distributes the funds to help local seniors struggling to pay their monthly water bills.
“When you bid on a barrel, you’re not just taking home a functional work of art—you’re helping a neighbor stay afloat,” said Donna Lizotte, Community Service Representative for FGUA.
Last year’s event raised $5,700, and this year’s goal is $6,000.
How to Participate:
• Visit www.32auctions.com/2025rainbarrel to view and bid on barrels now through May 8.
• Share the auction link with friends and family on social media.
• Businesses and individuals can also make direct donations through Lehigh Community Services.
Join us in making a difference—bid today and help local seniors keep the water flowing.
The Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA) owns and operates almost 100 water and wastewater utility systems in 14 Florida counties, providing service to more than 120,000 customer connections. Counties served by FGUA include Citrus, Hillsborough, Lake, Marion, Orange, Pasco, Polk, Seminole, Hardee, Lee, Alachua, Flagler, Putnam and Volusia.
