With our time at Studebaker 112 coming to an end, we’ve searched the city, discerned together, and landed on a plan. We’re going to transform the Tribune printing press building into a new home for SBCC and a place for the people of South Bend. It’s time for us to secure the purchase and begin the renovation. In order to do that, we’re making financial commitments to resource the project through a two-year period of giving above and beyond our general fund support that began Easter Sunday 2022.
Through listening sessions over the last several months, questions have surfaced, and we want to answer those here. In addition, we seek to be transparent regarding the financial aspects of this project. If you have any additional questions, please contact us at info@southbendcitychurch.com.
The original goal was $3 million. Talks with financial institutions and designers are ongoing to match the scope of the project to funds raised. We will have a mortgage, the payments to which are less than or equal to our current rent payments and fit within our reasonable and expected budget.
There is plenty of on-street parking around the Tribune as well as a parking garage with more than 500 free parking spaces available located at the corner of Main and Colfax. (Incidentally, the distance from the parking garage to the Tribune building is the same distance from the black gate to the doorstep of Studebaker 112). In addition, we are currently talking with a neighbor of the Tribune building about other parking lot options.
It depends on the outcome of this fundraising project and how much of the renovations we are able to accomplish. If we are successful in reaching our goal to completely renovate our building, then fundraising will be complete. We are mindful if we don’t, then a phased approach would mean another fundraising effort in the future.
The reality is we don’t know, but that is how we see faith working itself out in the real world. We have a hunch based on our due diligence that this is the best next step and have certainly been praying along the way. We discerned these steps in community with one another, and there have been a lot of wise people who have shared support for this plan. We are looking forward to seeing what happens.
You can determine your giving rhythm and indicate on the commitment form what works for you. Upfront gifts are very much appreciated because they will lessen the amount needed to be financed for this project.
Just like we did at Studebaker 112, we’ll take a building with a significant history in our city that has fallen out of use and fill it with life again, creating a place for the people. Not only will it be the home for South Bend City Church, with plenty of space for adult gatherings and kids’ ministry, but it will allow us to increase our community partnerships, too.
A community of grace and peace for our city and the world | P.O. Box 1578 South Bend, IN 46634