£8500 needed to keep Kirkcaldy’s Linton Lane Centre open

Linton Lane Centre has been part of the Lang Toun since 1966 – and it needs YOUR help to get through the coronavirus crisis.

With its revenue wiped out, it has started a campaign to raise £17,500 to make sure it can remain open after restrictions are lifted and continue to be a thriving hub for many local groups.

The centre has been there to help countless people and families through times of crisis.

Now it is our time to repay that commitment by supporting its online fundraiser.

Third Sector funding has awarded the centre £6080, and a further £3000 has poured into its Crowdfunder page – but it needs a further £8500 to hit its target.

Mandy Henderson has been centre manager for 24 years, and knows more than anyone what it means to so many people.

She said: “I have seen the needs of the community change so much, and the centre has adapted over the years to meet them.

“Twice, the roof has partially blown away, and we thought that was the end of the centre but with a strong board, group members and staff determination we opened again.

“We are facing this crisis with the same determination, but need to ask the community to help us to ensure our doors open to everyone again.”

Funding remains a perennial challenge for all frontline community groups, and the centre has worked hard to ensure every penny goes to helping the community groups and people who use it.

“We are facing the end of three years of funding for six of our groups, so, along with addressing the loss of income due to the present situation, we need to replace the backing for these groups.

“I have been lucky to have been given my role in the centre. I have watched parents who came to the playgroup become members of staff, children who are now coming into the baby clinic with their own kids, people who use the foodbank coming in months later with a box of chocolates to say thank you.

“I work with many dedicated staff and volunteers. One of them was Mary Walls who was dedicated in her role to support all community activities.

“Mary was not just a volunteer, or a board member – she became a friend and someone very much missed.

“This is the reason why Linton Lane Centre needs to stay open – for friendship, individual support to whoever walks through our doors, laughter, music, dancing and the lunch club to name a few.

“We will, and do, open seven days a week if needed.

“We have so many activities to offer, so please if you can help us, no matter how small, it will help.”

To donate, please visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/keep-linton-lane-open