A FUNDRAISER has been launched to take over an Irvine town centre building as a safe hub for local youngsters.
Wellbeing therapist Suzzi Welsh, known as the Happy Hippie, has spent seven years investing, planning and preparing to provide a safe space for young people in the community.
She planned to use her premises in Bank Street as part of Save Our Community's Kids (SOCKS) with a big launch this summer.
But through no fault of the group, they had had to vacate the building.
Suzzi said: "The landlord defaulted on the mortgage and we became hub-less within two weeks.
"I am now fighting back for the kids. I am currently in the process of trying to raise funds and buy the property, so that we can continue this valuable work. Then the kids can have a secure safe space that can not be taken away again."
She added: "We don't need another vape shop, we don't need another nail bar. We need somewhere for the kids. I find it hard to ask for help, but this is for the kids in the community.
"I wanted to offer a safe space for young people who are suffering with social anxiety, depression, bereavement, addiction to come in and be welcomed.
"I was absolutely gutted when I got two weeks notice to vacate the premises. it was heartwrenching. But this is the fightback and I hope that I can get the whole community involved.
"If everyone in Irvine gave a pound, we could own this beautiful building and we could do something really special for the kids."
She revealed: "Growing up, I suffered from anxiety myself I have come through it and wanted to help kids in the same situation.
"I had two weeks to vacate the premises after seven years. I had to leave four years to the day I was told I had breast cancer."
Suzzi now operates her health and wellbeing business, The Happy Hippie, from a small studio in the town's Ayr Road.
Now, she is determined to press ahead with the Bank Street building buyout - with the support of the community.
You can visit the GoFundMe donation page HERE.
Suzzi said: "Please can we pull our socks up and come together in unity to help plant this safe space, right in the heart of Irvine town for our kids to bring hope, understanding and belief to our community.
"All donations will go to SOCKS."
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