Church sale could help alleviate poverty
A new neighbour is moving in to the downtown core here.
Lakeside HOPE House will open its doors in September in an effort to make a difference in the lives of people in the community, especially those facing financial hardship.
Although it will be its own separate charity, HOPE House (Helping Overcome Poverty Everywhere) will serve the community as an extension of the ministry at Lakeside Church. In August, the leadership team at Lakeside approached the congregation of Norfolk Street United Church about purchasing its building. With declining numbers in membership, Norfolk was open to the idea.
Just recently, an agreement to purchase was confirmed with a price of $1 million.
Both congregations have agreed on the details of the sale, but a number of conditions must be met by June 30.
“We are helping strengthen another church, helping other agencies have greater impact and as a church, personally impacting our community,” said Dave Ralph, Lakeside’s lead pastor.
The Norfolk congregation will continue to meet in the building for up to three years.
