A modern multi-purpose facility is within reach for the The Alexandra Elim Church Trust thanks to a $180,000 capital grant.

Otago Community Trust (OCT) approved the grant and others totalling $1.3 million, during its final funding round for 2023, last week.

All the grants will got towards a wide range of community projects.

Among those celebrating the news is senior pastor Aaron More.

He said over the past three years the church community has been developing plans and raising funds to transform the property in Ngapara St into a modern, multi-purpose facility.

It will include a 215-seat auditorium and two multi-functional spaces.

“Thanks to the $180,000 grant from Otago Community Trust, the $250,000 from Central Lakes Trust and the $500,000 already raised, we are now well within reach of our funding target.” 

He said the significant grant would ensure the group will be able to start the project in early 2024 and was delighted that their vision for the facility and the community would become a reality.

OCT chair Andy Kilsby said the trust was pleased to be supporting the development of the significant community asset for Central Otago.

“Trustees have been impressed with the time and consideration that has been committed to the project and the fact that community groups including Alexandra Community Patrol and Alzheimer's Otago already used the church as a base.”

The prospect of additional community groups utilising the space upon completion, is encouraging to see, Andy said.

Floorplan of new building layout. PHOTO: Alexandra Elim Church 

Other organisations benefiting from community grants in December included Maniototo Ice Rink Inc, which received $30,000 to upgrade the rink's refrigeration plant.

Uruuruwhenua Health Inc received $15,000, Omakau Bowling Club received $10,000, Central Otago Heritage Trust $4500, Upper Taeiri Wai Inc received $4300 and the Cromwell Museum Trust received $1500. 

OCT capability grants for Central went to Alexandra and Districts Youth Trust, which received $4950 and the Cromwell Youth Trust, which received $4088. 

Find out more about the new building on the Alexandra Elim Church website.