News / St Anne's House
Community hub raises funds to recover break-in damages and rising heating costs
A community hub that is home to several creative projects that fuel the neighbourhood is in dire need of funds after a spate of break-ins and rising heat costs.
After losing nearly £10,00 due to break-in damages, St Anne’s House has now finally set up a crowdfunding campaign that will allow it to overcome these hefty financial losses while paving the way for a secure future.
Apart from the first break-in reported in January, the community hub has spent £20,000 in heating costs due to the building’s single-glazed windows and outdated heating system.
After securing a match funding from insurance company Aviva, the hub has set up a crowdfunder aimed to raise £50,000 by April 23.
St Anne’s House is home to more than 100 tenants including an inclusive gym, a community sauna and a community cafe – photo: St Anne’s House
Funds raised as part of this “emergency money” will be used to balance electricity and heating costs at the hub, maintain the studio and workspace, strengthen security and continue to empower the team to support the neighbourhood’s creative dreams.
CEO of St Anne’s House, Jack Gibbon said: “Our long-term vision for St Anne’s House is full of promise and we’re only just getting started, but without securing our financial present, that future cannot be realised.
“This crowdfunder is an urgent call to action for everyone who values community spaces and the positive impact they bring.”
St Anne’s House is owned by a charity, Bricks, who are in the process of securing the community hub’s current building for the long-term.
This put together with funds raised from the crowdfunder would mean an opportunity for more creative ways that could benefit the community.
For patrons who choose to donate £20 or above, there are gifts including a tea towel with a St Anne’s House-inspired type-face. They can also choose to pay it forward with their funds being used for creative purposes at the hub.
The fundraiser which has been active for only three days, has already raised more than £10,000 and is inching closer to its target.
With regular reading clubs, yoga classes and meet-ups and a community-run cafe, St Anne’s House has brought together members of the community in multiple ways over the years.
Main photo: St Anne’s House
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