A local project is taking a significant step forward this week.

Representatives from the Little House Society and the Corporation of Delta will be on hand Friday at the site on 12th Avenue in Tsawwassen for a groundbreaking ceremony.

The society is working hard to raise money to rebuild the little white house, which was destroyed by a fire in 2009. For 27 years it served as a meeting place for 12-step recovery groups.

Originally a family home, it was purchased by the Corporation of Delta in 1979 where it served as a home for programs offered by Delta Mental Health and Richmond Alcohol and Drug Action Team.

In May 1982, it was made available for 12-step meetings and in 2004 The Little House Society was established to oversee the facility.

Last year, the society launched a campaign to raise money to build a new house on the site. With the new home, the not-for-profit organization is also planning on expanding its services.

Along with offering a home for 12-step recovery meetings, the 1,600-square-foot house will also serve as a multipurpose space for the community, and as an education facility for the group. Community education about alcohol and drug abuse and addiction is a key part of the society's goals.

However, to achieve its goal the group needs to raise $250,000.

Society president Jim Stimson said while the community has responded overwhelmingly with donations of both cash and in-kind materials or services, there's still about $95,000 left to raise.

"Here's a community that's just responded," he said.

Stimson said Friday's groundbreaking is open to the public. The ceremony starts at 3 p.m. at 5016 12th Avenue in Tsawwassen.

For more information, or to make a donation, call Jim Stimson at 778-887-1828.