REDLANDS Centre for Women is at risk of closing due to a financial crisis.
The centre is holding a special general meeting on September 3 for members and supporters to discuss the organisation’s future.
Acting chief empowerment officer Kerri Long said the centre was at risk of closing its doors at the end of next month.
“Receiving no recurrent operational funding, the centre relies on financial support from the community through a range of income sources including fundraising, donations, sponsorship, small grants and sub-letting of the centre’s premises,” Ms Long said.
“Recently two major sub-tenants vacated the premises leaving RCW with a projected deficit of more than $25,000.
“Due to a perfect storm of events over the past few months we find ourselves having to make some really difficult decisions.”
Ms Long said other income sources were being investigated.
“We need our wonderful Redlands community to be aware of our circumstances in the hope of finding an urgent solution to continue to provide a warm and welcoming women’s hub and deliver the life changing programs for which we have become renowned.”
The centre was started as Pink Pamper Packs in 2008 when Katrina Beutel took up a challenge to grow $100 into more money to help others.
Ms Beutel and some friends held a high tea fundraiser, using the money for pamper packs of goodies given to women going through a difficult time.
Less than three years later, they had distributed nearly 600 packs and established the Redland Centre for Women to empower and connect women.
Ms Beutel said she was sad about the possible closure.
“However, it has been a privilege to have been part of supporting, empowering and changing many women’s lives in the Redlands over the past 11 years,” she said.
”The friendships that have grown from the centre have been lifelong.”
This year the centre received money from government departments and council but funding for three programs ends next month.
The centre runs groups for young first-time mums and their babies, teenagers, self-esteem and body image support and crafters.
They also give nurture boxes to all women who birth at the Redlands Hospital.
The centre held an annual International Women’s Day High Tea to raise money.
Ms Long said the centre had more than 200 members, 60 volunteers and a small team of part-time staff.
Members and supporters are asked to register for the meeting on Monday, September 3 at 7pm. Phone 3461 7097 or email info@redlandscentreforwomen.com.
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