The Leslieville Community Center is racing against a tight deadline to apply for grant funding for renovations that will allow it to keep its doors open.
Since mid-2024, the hall has been working to raise over $500,000 for essential renovations and retrofits required to maintain its occupancy permit. Officials say the improvements are crucial to ensure the building continues to serve as a hub for the Leslieville community.
Brenna Knopp, president of the Leslieville Community Centre, says the hall is applying for several different grants that provide funding for buildings projects and various improvement pertaining to community facilities.
Many of these grants are “matching”, she says, and that fact will likely change the organization’s fundraising strategy going forward.
To support the grant process, booking coordinator Melissa Wright is asking the public to write a letter outlining their feelings on how important the hall is to the fabric of Leslieville.
“We’ve already had some letters coming in explaining they appreciate the community for the local groups they’re a part of,” says Wright. “As well, describing important events in their lives that have happened at the center.”
Those wishing to help can email a letter of support for the grant application to leslievillecommunitycenter@gmail.com. Knopp adds, the hall is hoping to start applying for grants as soon as mid-February, but will continue to accept letters afterward.
Without the upgrades, Wright says the hall is at risk of being forced to close without the necessary upgrades. “Without these renovations, the center may not be able to meet safety and regulatory standards,” Wright said.
So far, the Leslieville Community Center has already raised around $30,000 for reno efforts. It’s held several successful fundraisers, including a Harvest Supper and a Halloween-themed event to support the renovation project.
The hall also hosted an open house event to outline the scope of the required improvements, their associated costs, and the ongoing efforts to raise funds, as well as to give the public an opportunity to ask questions and learn how they can contribute.
Future fundraising initiatives include a 90s-themed dance fundraiser planned for Feb. 28.
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