Without wheelchair-friendly facilities, going to church can be a hassle - or it can even be impossible - for the elderly and disabled. As a result, these individuals opt for staying at home and missing significant events like weddings, church services or funerals.
At Augustana Lutheran Church in local suburb Tonawanda, Rev. Troy A. Mulvaine noticed a decreasing number of senior citizens attending church regularly. He decided to resolve the problem once and for all - and he's looking for help.
Mulvaine wants to install an elevator and handicap-accessible restroom, but $70,000 is needed to put this plan into action.
On Saturday, Sept. 8, Augustana is hosting a fundraiser in hopes to raise enough money for the project.
Mulvaine aims to raise a couple thousand dollars, he said, through this fundraiser. If it proves to be successful, there may be another one in the spring.
The fundraiser will take place at Augustana Lutheran Church and will consist of a flea market at 9 a.m. and then a Krolick's Chicken BBQ at 2 p.m. Ticket charge will be $9.50 at the door, or $9 if purchased prior to the event; the event is expected to last all day.
Reverend Mulvaine advocates UB students to attend the event and support the mission in raising money for these facilities. UB students will have the chance to meet others in the community and maybe find their "church home," he said.
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