*** A short video about the project: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VlRWSGWzBGd5TaW9o9i1t0KYfWuS2MDy/view?usp=sharing ***

Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem

Assalamualaikum,

Winchester Muslim Cultural Association (WMCA) is a registered charity (No. 1085124), and a wonderful opportunity has arisen to establish a permanent property in Winchester.

Winchester is a fairly small city that was once the capital of England. We do not yet have a permanent premises; we have been renting out various community centres, halls, etc for Jummah salah and taraweeh salah in Ramadan. Our nearest Masjid are located in Southampton and Basingstoke, both about 15 miles away.

We are a young and diverse community, we are desperate for a fixed location, and the youngsters are hungry for knowledge and activities.

The WMCA has been looking for a property for the first permanent multi-function space in Winchester for over 40 years. (23 under current charity) In that time, the committee has viewed several properties for which bids were placed but without success due to various reasons, such as developers placing more favourable bids.

Alhamdullilah, we have made a successful bid for Hyde Hall, which is located a short walk from the City Centre and is a freehold sale. Hyde Hall meets a lot of the property requirements that have been set by the WMCA:

* Close to public car parks and public transport, around an 8 minute walk from the train station

* Has already got category F planning permission

* Has a large hall suitable for gatherings and community activities. The hall is suitable for women's groups and interfaith activities, with space for up to 200 people.

* Has accessible entrances and facilities.

* Separate 1st floor accommodation.

The property is being purchased under Charitable incorporated organisation (CIO) under the WMCA registered charity.

Alhamdulillah we’ve had a great response so far but are still short of our target. The funds required are made up of the purchase of the building, undertaking essential repairs, and carrying out renovations. We need help from our brothers and sisters around the UK and around the globe.

May Allah SWT help us raise the funds, accept everyone’s intentions, and help in this process.

Abu Hurairah (r.a.) reported Allah’s Messenger (s.a.w.s.) as saying: “Charity does not in any way decrease the wealth and the servant who forgives, Allah adds to his respect; and the one who shows humility, Allah elevates him in the estimation (of the people).” (Muslim Vol. 4, Hadith 6264)

This is a great opportunity for Sadqa Jariyah, either for yourself or on behalf of a loved one who is no longer with us.

Please help in any way you can and share with others; also keep us in your duas.

JazakAllah Khair