I would suggest that the local authorities with the support of the community and companies start an appeal, to raise money to keep the St. Mary's running.

appeal 在这里是名词，意思是"呼吁、请求"，指为了特定目的（如筹款）而公开发出的号召。这个词来自动词 appeal（呼吁、恳求），在慈善或公共事务语境中常指正式的募捐或支持请求。