Church of St Luke the Evangelist fundraiser for new hub

The Church of St Luke the Evangelist in Burton Stone Lane will be launching a new project from next Friday and Saturday (March 22 and 23) to help them in their quest to build a new accessible and multi-purpose building to replace their ageing church hall.

The present timber Church Hall was built in 1967 following a huge local fundraising campaign but has now exceeded its original 25-year design life by 33 years – leaving behind a space that is not fit for purpose.

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Whilst the project to replace the hall has already raised £300,000, the church still requires an additional £460,000 to complete their project.

They hope to raise this through community support and through an application for National Lottery Community Funding.

Members are invited to attend events next weekend to support the campaign and gather evidence of community need to go towards the National Lottery application.

In addition to church functions, the hall hosts a community café, a waste food distribution project, a Parent and Toddler Groups, dementia services, and other community functions.

An impression of the hub (Image: Provided) St Luke’s Vicar, the Revd Anika Gardiner, says, “Updating the old hall is important but more so is creating a hub, connecting people and creating a safe, accessible space for young and old alike within our community.

“Having a youth work background myself, it would be fantastic to be part of creating more opportunities for young people and families in our area, strengthening the links with our local schools and offering a space for people to get together.

“This hub will be a space of welcome, allowing people to try out new activities, develop skills and build up relationships within the church and the local community.”

Plans for the community hub (Image: Provided) Local politicians have rallied behind the campaign with Clifton Ward Councillors Lord Mayor Margaret Wells and Cllr Danny Myers supporting the campaign.

York Central MP Rachael Maskell also added: “St Luke’s is a fantastic local hub, at the heart of the community. It’s an asset for people to attend events and connect with each other and the neighbourhood. I’m really supportive of the work to improve the facilities and ensure St Luke’s continues to provide a welcoming space for all to use and enjoy.”

The launch events will be held in the hall from 7.15pm to 9.00pm on Friday March 21 and from 10am to midday on Saturday March 22.