A nonprofit organization will soon give one of Wilmington’s most unique buildings a new purpose.
After years as a tiki bar and entertainment venue, the building that once housed The Sorrow Drowner
is slated to get new life benefiting the Port City’s homeless population. Located at 19 S 10th St. in downtown Wilmington, the building will be taken over by the local nonprofit Living Hope Day Center, the organization announced in a social media post in August.The center has operated out of a space at First Baptist Church on Market Street since 2023, but the building is slated to undergo renovations.
Founding couple Christine and Tony Perez announced that the nonprofit initially planned to lease the building for one year, but the current owners offered
an owner financing deal after hearing about the organization’s mission.
The nonprofit, which provides meals and fellowship at a center where the homeless population can find relief from the elements, has started a GoFundMe fundraiser with a goal of $500,000 to cover the down payment on the building and other overhead costs. As of Aug. 21, the fundraiser had received over $140,000 in donations.
“When running a day shelter, there’s always moving parts and new opportunities so we are excited to share this new opportunity with you,” Christine Perez said in an announcement video.
What is the Living Hope Day Center?
Living Hope ILM started during the COVID-19 pandemic after many local ministries shut down. The organization started out serving meals and providing community for the homeless population before moving into the space at First Baptist Church.
At the church, the organization has been open three days a week to provide food, coffee, bathrooms, spiritual care, art creation and case management services for homeless individuals.
Why did The Sorrow Drowner close?
Known for its eccentric décor and live entertainment, owners of The Sorrow Drowner announced its closure in January 2025 after a three-year run.
“Our passion for The Sorrow Drowner and its guests has been unwavering, but after careful consideration during a period of reassessment as we enjoy the off season, we have decided that the time has come to honor our original intention to return to California,” the business posted on social media in 2025. “The decision to relocate was not made lightly. We are deeply grateful for the support we’ve received from the Wilmington community and visitors.”
Blue Ridge Brokerage advertised the listing for $1.75 million earlier this year, noting that the building was 4,845 square feet and fully built out for use as an entertainment venue. Owner Alfred Wheatley purchased the property for $1.25 million in 2020. Before the business took over, the building served as the venue for TheatreNow.
Daniel Sheehan covers New Hanover County for the StarNews. Reach him at dsheehan@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Former Wilmington entertainment venue to get new life
