The Florrie needs your help. The Florence Institute has stood proudly in the heart of Liverpool 8 for 135 years. As a Grade II listed Victorian gem, the historic building is not just an architectural treasure but a vital cultural and community hub for the people of Liverpool and Merseyside. However, maintaining a building of such significance comes with challenges.
Repairs began last year on the building, including the copings on the gable ends, and a condition survey has revealed the building needs re-pointing and other repairs to the gymnasium roof. These essential works have already been a significant financial undertaking for the charity, and it is important action is taken now to ensure their heritage is not ‘at risk’ again.
The Florrie have launched their 2025 fundraiser, ‘The Florrie Preservation Campaign’. Throughout the year, all fundraising efforts and activities will be dedicated to raising the vital funds needed to complete the repairs.
Anne Lundon, CEO of The Florrie said:
“The Florrie is more than just a building; it’s a lifeline for so many people, but maintaining a Grade II listed building such as the Florrie is expensive and these repairs and an ongoing maintenance program are critical to ensuring we can continue our work and keep The Florrie thriving as a space for everyone”
Here’s how you can make a difference.
• Make a Donation: Every pound helps them get closer to their goal. You can donate directly to the
campaign here.
• Text to Donate: Just text ‘Florrie’ followed by the amount you wish to donate to 70085.
• Join the Fundraising Events: They’ve got a packed calendar of activities this year, all in support of The Florrie. Stay tuned for announcements!
• Spread the Word: Share their story with your friends, family, and networks. The more people who know about their mission, the closer they’ll get to reaching the goal.
• Fundraise: eg, run a marathon
For ideas & inspiration on fundraising for The Florrie head to the website.
Their first major fundraiser of the year is Walk Florrie Goes International: Connecting with Communities in Vallecas, Spain!
This March, The Florrie Men’s Wellbeing Group, fondly known as Walk Florrie, will embark on a groundbreaking journey to Vallecas, Madrid. This trip marks the group’s first international venture and promises to be a huge occasion for cultural exchange, shared expertise, and raising awareness about men’s mental health on a global scale.
Twelve members of Walk Florrie will head to Vallecas to collaborate with a social hub similar to The Florrie, sharing their experiences and helping to establish a men’s wellbeing group in the area. Together, they will walk, talk, and shine a light on the universal importance of mental health support.
Building on The Florrie’s rich legacy of cultural exchange and personal growth, this trip underscores the shared challenges and solidarity between communities in Liverpool and Vallecas. It’s an inspiring example of how initiatives like Walk Florrie not only transform lives locally but also resonate globally.
This trip will also highlight the need for ongoing support for The Florrie. Donations raised will safeguard the future of our iconic building while enabling life-changing initiatives like this to continue.
Together, we can ensure The Florrie’s doors stay open for generations to come. Your generosity will help preserve this historic gem and the services that so many in our community rely on every day.
You can find out more information on the fundraiser here.
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