Londonderry News

The Met children’s museum today announced the launch of a fundraising and restructuring effort aimed at staving off the August 31st eviction and closing previously announced.

Inspired by recent membership and community support, the museum has set three challenging goals for the “Save the Met” campaign: raising $50,000 to cover debt and short-term expenses, and securing both additional board members and new corporate sponsors to help improve operations going forward.

“The touching stories, expressions of sadness, and offers to help were too loud to ignore,” said Tracy LaPlante, executive director of the Met. “Our landlord is being quite supportive, but now it’s time for corporate citizens and the community at large to step up and show how much they want the Met to stay.”

“The Met is a real treasure for area children and a definite boost for local business,” said Gary Stenhouse, Derry town administrator. “I hope this campaign succeeds in helping them establish a more solid financial footing here in downtown Derry.”

A variety of Save the Met fundraising programs are being planned, and there will be a meeting for everyone interested in participating Tuesday, August 7, at 7:00 pm, at the Met. Pledges towards the $50,000 goal can be made at the Met, by phone (425-2560), or on the web HERE. Businesses wishing to support the Met should contact Tracy LaPlante by phone or email (tracy.laplante@comcast.net).