KITCHENER - The Better Business Bureau is warning people keen to lose weight and save money about numerous complaints it has received about a weight-loss centre with a Kitchener location and an associated grant organization.

The bureau's central Ontario branch launched an investigation into Dalewood Health & Wellness and then Weight Loss Grants Organization in the summer of 2018 after hearing from people that they were not receiving services as promised from Dalewood.

Many reported being referred to Dalewood by Weight Loss Grants Organization, which claims to offer reimbursement grants to people who lose weight while using a professional company or practitioner, even after asking for the names of other eligible service providers that they were told was confidential.

Investigators found Dalewood and the grant agency were in the same office and there was overlap in the people involved with the operations.

Consumers then started filing complaints against the grant organization because grants were being denied for various reasons, and obstacles to getting their promised money kept popping up.

"They were having difficulty receiving their grants. They felt as if the goalposts were being moved," said Carlie Bero, marketing and communications co-ordinator with the bureau.

The bureau was also concerned, along with customers, about the cost of services at Dalewood compared to the value. Clients were paying $2,600 and expecting to get 80 per cent back.

Dalewood Health & Wellness - with an office listed on Victoria Street in Kitchener - has a BBB Rating of "D" with 26 complaints plus three pending cases, and 32 negative customer reviews.

Weight Loss Grants Organization has an "F" rating - the lowest possible grade - based on the volume and pattern of complaints, as well as unresolved complaints. Since July 2018, it has received 94 complaints with 42 pending cases, and 13 negative customer reviews.

The business bureau discovered recently that both organizations have begun to operate under several different names, including Trillium Weight Loss and Vitality Health Grants. It will continue to update information on its site, including new names.

People are urged to check the website for up-to-date information about businesses, and always do research to check out a company's reputation.

The bureau advises people to read the fine print of a contract before signing to find out if an agreement can be cancelled at any time and if a refund will be given.

Be aware that grants and rebate programs can be cancelled at any time, Bero said.

"Only financially commit to something you can afford. Grants are not guaranteed."

jweidner@therecord.com

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Twitter: @WeidnerRecord