Seeking HVAC Assistance for Historic Church

Hi, my name is Rev Nancy S Manner; I am raising funds to save the historic Central United Methodist Church in Richmond, Va.

Central United Methodist Church in the Manchester area of Richmond, VA, is in the process of becoming a community hub. However, the 122-year-old heating system is defunct, and new mini splits are being installed for $330,000. Our small congregation is seeking grants and historical funding to offset some of the costs. Help us save this historic church so that we may continue to serve the Manchester area.

The church is now home to the Math Science Innovation Center, which has provided outreach education to schools in the Richmond area since 1966. They offer STEM workshops at the church on weekends and in the summer. The church also has three Narcotics Annonymous groups meeting weekly and provides storage and meeting space for Crossover Healthcare Ministries. Trinity United Methodist partners with us to provide Kid's Club for children, many living in abject poverty. The church has room for other groups and meetings, etc. However, we cannot meet these needs without a reliable heating/cooling system.

Your donation would be appreciated to extend our service to the community. If you know of any applicable grants, please inform us. Any additional funds will help upgrade the electrical service, repair exterior problems, and provide much-needed internal cosmetic repairs.

Central United Methodist has a rich history, with its congregation arising from the first Methodist meeting group in the Richmond area. The congregation met in several wood frame buildings in Manchester from 1786 until the Gothic-style red brick building was built in 1900. The church has been a thriving congregation but, over the years, dwindled, like many urban churches. The current small community wants to save this historic building and extend our mission to provide office and meeting spaces for non-profit agencies. Our mission is to make God's love real by reaching out to all, regardless of race, sexual orientation, or social status.