The friends of a man well-known in the Moncton football community who has fallen on hard times are coming together to get him back on his feet.

Bob Vautour is on the verge of homelessness. It’s also been 15 months since he lost his wife to a heart attack.

While dealing with the loss, a series of unfortunate events have left him nearly destitute, living without electricity since Nov. 23.

“Some rooms are below zero for sure because I can see my breath in the house,” said Vautour. “I put water in the dog dish and it freezes. By the time I get home at night I have to chip it out of the dish.”

His friend, Jill Murray, was horrified by the situation, saying it shouldn't happen in this day and age.

“It's not okay,” said Murray. “It has to stop. There has to be some sort of reform in our laws where we don't allow this to happen to our seniors and families.”

At 59 years old, Vautour admits he's closer to retirement than a new employee, but he gratefully-accepted part-time work with the YMCA and signed up for social assistance.

However, whatever he makes independently comes off of his government cheques. Jason Surette, the founder of Big Hearts Small City, says Vautour’s story is far too common.

“It seems to be happening more and more,” said Surette. “Seniors are losing power in the middle of the winter time, and we know NB Power has their rules, but we believe there should be some kind of change happening so someone doesn't end up in this situation.”

Vautour is known for his contributions to Moncton’s football community, so Murray decided it was time for the community to give back to the man who gave them so much by setting up a fundraiser.

But things have taken a nasty turn. When money was deposited into Vatour’s bank account, social development made the decision to cut his social assistance cheque, meaning he won't receive $577 a month.

Murray says the situation made her remember the 2008 death of Paul Durelle.

“He was a 53-year-old man on social assistance, just like Bob, and his power was cut off. And he died as a result,” said Murray.

Vautour is staying positive and is making plans for when the lights come back on.

“You keep thinking you've got ways to fix it, you keep thinking you're going to fix it, you keep thinking, how bad can it get? It can get pretty bad,” he said.

The group is hoping to raise enough money to restore his power and prevent a foreclosure sale on his home.

With files from CTV Atlantic’s Cami Kepke.