Ayrshire Cancer Support, Ayrshire’s leading cancer support charity is excited to announce a major development in the charity’s 39-year history.
Following phase one of their fundraising campaign to purchase a new cancer support centre in Ayr they can now reveal the purchase of the former St. Andrews Hotel at 7 Prestwick Road, Ayr.
The charity is now appealing for locals to help ‘make it happen’, by helping to raise funds to develop the building.
When sufficient funds have been raised, the building works will commence to create a vital resource for the people of South Ayrshire.
The centre will play host to counselling and therapeutic rooms, a large drop-in centre, purposed spaces for children and young people’s cancer support services, space to facilitate support groups as well as landscaped gardens and off-road parking. Convenient transport links by bus and train also serve the new centre.
The charity identified the need for bigger premises in South Ayrshire which could also accommodate cancer support services for children and young people, including play therapies.
They sold their centre in Wellington Square Ayr and had begun to raise funds before the pandemic to purchase a new centre. That milestone has now been reached and the race is on to convert the property for use by future generations.
Sandra McCall, CEO of Ayrshire Cancer Support said:
"We are thrilled we have managed to secure such a fantastic property thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Ayrshire community. This centre, whilst modelled on our current Kilmarnock centre, will also have dedicated spaces for children and young people affected by cancer, as well as adults.
"It’s a very exciting time for the charity and we hope it won’t be too much longer until we can raise the funds required to extend the reach of our vital services. Most families are affected by cancer, and it’s comforting to know we intend to be here for everyone who need us well into the future."
The charity is appealing for individuals, community groups, businesses, and schools to help ‘Make it Happen’ by raising funds to undertake the necessary refurbishment and building works to ensure the centre can open as soon as possible to support residents of South Ayrshire.
To get involved, call 01563 538008.