Mt Grey centre needs $12,000

Press, 12 June 1984, Page 2

Mt Grey centre needs $12,000

About $12,000 will be needed to replace the accommodation building at the Mt Grey Downs rehabilitation centre which was destroyed by fire on Sunday, says the Christchurch City Missioner, the Rev. David Morrell. The historic former Mount Grey school could house up to six residents, although only three were living in it at the time of the fire. It had a games room and shower facilities. Heat from the blaze also damaged the nearby houseparents accommodation building, shattering windows and melting the spouting along one side. “Quick action on the part of the residents and the house parents saved the second buildings,” said Mr Morrell. The mission had been offered three huts which

were in good condition and suitable for the centre, but these were in Timaru. “By the time we transport them up here, do foundation work, plumbing and electric wiring, we will be looking at about $12,000 to replace the building which was destroyed. “Although it was insured the Mission has no other funds available to help set up again,” he said. “We have a policy of not accumulating investments because we feel that if people give us money they want it spent.” On Sunday night a man had offered $lOOO to help the centre which had boosted morale considerably. However, the response to the Mission’s winter appeal, which was running now, would be crucial in determining whether or not the centre could keep going, Mr Morrell said.