The Cochrane Historical Archival Preservation Society (CHAPS) took another giant step forward towards covering the cost of repairs to their museum, thanks to a generous donation by Cochrane Home Treasures.

This morning, a $10,000 donation was presented to CHAPS at the Cochrane Museum to the delight of the society members.

CHAPS president Larry Want says he was speechless when he listened to the phone message from Home Treasures.

"I had to check the answering twice to make sure I heard it right," says Want.

Cayley Breeze, manager of the nonprofit Home Treasures, says they contribute to many worthy Cochrane causes.

"We make lots of donations to local charities and initiatives," she explains. "They had a big problem with the flood so we wanted to help them out with the restoration."

As a model nonprofit second-hand store, the mandate of Home Treasures is to give back to the community. Last year they gave out $99,375 and they are on target to donate in excess of $100,000 in 2019.

"Because we're a not-for-profit store, we're by donation. So we rely upon the donation of goods so we can resell them and keep supporting the community."

Cochrane Treasures is located at 118 1st Ave. W.

CHAPS has now received about $25,000 in donations to help with the repairs, expected to cost as much as $48,000. Want says Cochrane's community spirit is amazing.

"It has all been unsolicited, and it's just fantastic that people and organizations have stepped up to help."

Repairs to the museum may begin as early as next week, says Want. In the meantime, they are making sure everything is thoroughly dry from the freak flooding of the Bighill Creek in late March before being resealed.

While the museum is not currently open for regular hours, the main floor is looking sharp and a feast for the eyes with its many displays and artifacts depicting the area's rich history. The museum is counting down the days to the return of their summer students, including the multi-talented Jade Lewis.