VIDEO:Help save HASWA as local Elm Park community centre faces 158% rent increase from Havering Council.

In 1996 members of the Havering Asian Social and Welfare Association took over an old dilapidated building that was in urgent need of care in Elm Park. The team began a three year rent free contract from Havering Council that saw them spend over £100,000 in repairs including complete new wiring for the hall.

Since then, HASWA has spent more that £300,000 on the community centre and has made what was once an old forgotten building into a an outstanding community centre that is full of life and jam packed with vibrant activities for all members of the local community everyday.

Now, sadly its future is in question as the rent increase from Havering Council has gone up 158%, meaning instead of paying £4,000 a year, they are looking at a possible increase to £15,000. Members of HASWA are desperately looking to buy the building from the council, but once again the price of £700,000 is out of their reach. It is thanks to HASWA that the building is in the good running order it currently is in and that it has been saved as a community centre.

HASWA and its members are a focal point for our community. They offer daily activities for members who would otherwise not see anyone at all. It gives local residents the chance to engage in activities and also come out of their houses and meet other people, form friendships and gives them a new purpose in life. This truly is a fantastic place in our community who provides so much support for everyone who walks into their centre.

You can often find HASWA members like Manjit at many local events across the borough where she is donating free food to the community.

Please help support this amazing community centre.

Mr Sansar Singh Narwal.

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