Nearly a month after an air conditioning unit was stripped at the Metropolitan Community Church of Tampa, fundraisers of all kinds have taken shape to help the LGBT-inclusive church replace the unit valued at nearly $12,000.
“I’m touched,” Hunt said. “I thought we were going to have to manage this tragedy alone. We are very grateful for the kind support and care we’re getting from the community.”
The church has set up a PayPal donation link on its home page (MCCTampa.com) and Nikos restaurant in Oldsmar has planned a fundraiser, complete with entertainment.
“Love Thy Neighbor” is Sunday, Nov. 21, and includes live entertainment and raffles to raise money for the church.
“It’s an event to honor MCC,” said Andonia Tirikos, the owner of the restaurant. “It broke my heart when I found out that the air conditioning unit was stolen, so I knew I had to do something to help.”
The evening starts at 6 p.m. and will include a special concert by Talent Quest Florida.
“An Evening With the Champions” will feature singers who have competed on the national level of the Talent Quest singing competition.
“It says a lot to the character of Nikos Restaurant for stepping up and helping a church in need,” said Talent Quest Florida co-owner Phil Garris. “We’re happy to help and we have some great talent coming in specifically for this fundraiser.”
A $5 donation is requested at the door and all donations—including those for a gift basket raffle—go directly to MCC Tampa.
Nikos Restaurant is at 3705 Tampa Road in Oldsmar. For more information, call the restaurant at 813-814-0907.
