A Seymour church has put the fun in fundraising in an effort to raise money to relocate its ministry.

The Alley recently conducted a pie in the face fundraiser that brought in $16,448.20 in donations.

Amber Ingalsbe, a member of The Alley’s board of directors, came up with the idea for the fundraiser with her daughter, Paige, as a way for the church to come together and support its future.

But the two never dreamed it would end up raising as much money as it did.

“We set a goal of $1,500,” Amber said. “We were definitely blessed. It’s still hard to believe.”

The idea was for several of the church’s members and supporters to compete in raising the most money. But instead of just one winner, all 11 participants and a few extra people ended up earning a pie in the face.

Those raising money were Angie Napier, Nic Garrett, Sara Bowling, Frances Chew, Jennifer Shapiro, Jessica King, Mitchell McIntyre, Tony Wesner, Ryan Montgomery, Mike Pike and David Wilson.

The money will go to rent, purchase or build a new facility to house The Alley and its kitchen, which serves free hot meals Monday through Friday to the hungry. The kitchen serves an average of 60 to 90 people daily. The church also operates a community food pantry twice a month.

Church officials have been looking for a new home since learning in 2015 that their lease at 416 E. Second St. would expire at the end of 2017 and not be renewed.

Owned by Iglesia Evangelical Rios De Agua Viva (Rivers of Living Water Evangelical Church), the building once served as a warehouse for an electrical supply company.

In February, the landlords granted The Alley a temporary extension that allows the church to remain in the building through the end of 2018, giving them more time to raise money and find a new location.

The church would like to remain close to the downtown to be able to continue to serve those who walk there.

Another fundraiser for The Alley is being planned by Psalms 46:5 Ministry for April 8 at Seymour Christian Church. A Night of God, Recovery and Worship will begin at 6 p.m. with testimony, fellowship and a bake sale.

Ingalsbe said The Alley would like to see all churches from the community attend to learn more about The Alley’s mission, which is to serve the homeless, the hungry, those struggling with and recovering from substance abuse and other addictions or anyone who might be in a difficult place in their life.

“We have made some changes, and we are really wanting to work with (other churches) to help our community,” she said. “We all have the same goal: Love God, love people and saving souls.”

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What: A Night of God, Recovery and Worship fundraiser for The Alley

When: 6 p.m. April 8

Where: Seymour Christian Church, 915 Kasting Road, Seymour

Help out: To make a donation, send checks to The Alley, P.O. Box 191, Seymour, IN 47274

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