The new centre was opened by The Rt Revd Simon Burton-Jones, the Bishop of Tonbridge, who contributes regular columns to the Times, who was guest of honour at the official opening ceremony for the new youth centre on August 26.
To raise money for the new venue, members of TWYFC walked the 27 miles in less than 12 hours.
At the time of going to press, the group had raised £5,603.75 of their £10,000 target, and they hope funds will continue to flow in.
TWYFC is a local Christian charity working with young people in the town through after-school drop-in sessions and mentoring at the new Youth Centre, which provides a safe space to empower young people in a Christian way through fun and friendship.
The town centre location means that many secondary pupils may pass it on their way from school, so they can drop into the centre for free drinks and cake at the café, play games, and a chat about life and faith. The charity is also involved in mentoring in local schools as well as supporting church youth workers in their ministry with young people.
The circular route saw the TWYFC team and Trustees pass through several local villages circling the Spa town. The challenge was increased by the hilly nature of the local High Weald landscape.
Centre Director Karen Cox said: “Having the premises is a big change for Tunbridge Wells Youth for Christ and we are very excited about the opportunities it creates for our ministry to the young people of Tunbridge Wells.
“It has also increased our costs, so the team and Trustees walked the Tunbridge Wells circular walk to raise money for the activities at the centre.”
Adding that supporters can still donate, she said: “Please do sponsor the team for taking on this marathon challenge (plus a mile and half) to raise funds to run our new Youth Centre.
“Last year’s sponsorship allowed us to fit out the Youth Centre – a massive thank you if you contributed!
“Now, as life returns to society, we want to be able to open the centre as much as possible for the young people in the town to use as a place to chat about life, faith and Jesus while making things and playing games and eating cake!
“We also need funds to provide mental health support for young people, run courses and social events for youth workers in the town, and to link with other charities to offer mentoring and life skills training to disadvantaged young adults.”
If you wish to add a donation, visit: yfc.co.uk/sponsor/tunbridgewells
For more information on TWYFC, visit: tunbridgewells.yfc.co.uk
