General News
10 August, 2024
Wesley fund bolstered by generous donation
Wesley fundraising passes the one million target half way mark
The Handbury Foundation's $30,000 donation has significantly boosted the Wesley committee's fundraising efforts, bringing them closer to the $1 million goal and the re-opening of the much-loved facility.
"The Wesley committee is extremely grateful for this generous contribution from their philanthropic partner, which will ensure the enduring link between the Handbury family and The Wesley," President of The Wesley Committee Mary Starr said.
The Wesley fundraising campaign, launched in April this year, has now exceeded the halfway mark, raising a total of $575,000.
The campaign, which aims to reopen The Wesley, has seen people across Horsham contribute generously and help sell raffle tickets at various locations.
President Starr said the committee had been overwhelmed by the incredible support from the community, with donations pouring in from all sectors.
"In a major boost to the campaign, the Handbury Foundation donated $30,000 at the beginning of July," Mrs Starr said.
"Once reopened, The Wesley will serve as a medium-sized venue for the entire community, hosting a variety of events including school performances, eisteddfods, intimate theatrical performances, conferences, exhibitions, cabarets, meetings, weddings, and funerals," she said.
"The Wesley fundraising campaign committee has set a funding target of $1 million. We are pleased to announce that we have exceeded the halfway mark, raising a total of $575,000.
"We are grateful for the support and encourage further donations to help us reach our goal," she said.
The project, which has been meticulously prepared over the last six years since The Wesley was closed, is now moving towards the next stage - making the reopening of The Wesley a reality.
The Wesley Committee is a non-profit group with Deductible Gift Recipient and Tax Concession Charity status, allowing contributions to be classified as tax deductible.
From April 2024, donations will be accepted at the Horsham Town Hall seven days a week in cash, cheque, card, or EFT.
'We look forward to seeing this space fully activated for community use and open to the public once again," Ms Starr said.
The Horsham Rural City Council previously matched the Wesley Committee's cash contribution of $225,000 to the project, enabling the committee to kick off a fundraising campaign with $450,000.