A day centre for adults with learning disabilities faces closure unless it can raise £100,000 by the end of the year.
The Freedom Day Centre currently rents a base in South Littleton, near Evesham, from the Quakers, which is selling the building.
It has been pledged £50,000 from the Hilda Farr Charitable Trust in Bretforton towards buying the facility.
But the cash is on condition that the centre match-funds £50,000 by December 31. If not, the trust offer will be withdrawn.
READ MORE: Mother who started disco for people with learning disabilities given award
The community interest organisation has so far raised £14,000. It’s now calling on the public to help support a fundraising bid, including a summer ball in July.
Manager and founder Tracey Hemming said: “This is a huge opportunity for us to secure our forever home but it really is a race against the clock.
“We are incredibly grateful for the Hilda Farr Charitable Trust’s offer - but the pressure is now on as we only have six months to raise the remaining £36,000.”
Last year the centre was forced to vacate its first rented space in Badsey.
“We were located in a pub that was formerly the British Legion club and given a month to leave,” said Ms Hemming.
Freedom Day Centre wants to safeguard its future
“We were an established part of the local community but couldn’t find any alternative premises in Badsey.
“It was a very vulnerable time for us and we could have folded.”
Freedom Day Centre moved into its new home as a tenant last December after spending £100,000 on refurbishing the building to make it suitable for its users.
READ MORE: Freedom Day Centre in Evesham nominated for Health and Social Care Award
“This time we are determined to own our premises and safeguard our future,” added Ms Hemming. “The people who use the centre love it here – we are a family and they would be devastated if we were forced to move again or even worse, close.”
The summer ball on Saturday, July 2 at Evesham Town Hall is one of a number of fundraising events this year.
So far they have included an auction, a talent show, bingo, quizzes and a classic car and light aircraft show at the Bidford Gliding and Flying Club. The ball will include drinks on arrival, live music, buffet and a raffle.
For tickets email Tracey Hemming at info@freedomdaycentre.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel