Grants help LaGrange County projects

The LaGrange County Community Foundation awarded Agape Missions of LaGrange a $5,360 grant to assist with the second-tier roof renovation at Brian’s House in LaGrange. Agape Missions operates an emergency shelter for individuals and families in LaGrange County. From left are Agape Missions board members Deven Hostetler, Brittany Cowley, Steve Sherck and LCCF Executive Director Jennifer Tuttle.

Community Impact Grants help LaGrange County projects

The LaGrange County Community Foundation recently awarded Agape Missions of LaGrange a $5,360 Community Impact grant to complete the roof renovation at Brian’s House in LaGrange. The nonprofit organization started in 2014 to help individuals in LaGrange County in need of emergency shelter.

From left are Agape Missions of LaGrange County board members Deven Hostetler, Brittany Cowley and Steve Sherck. In 2016, Agape Missions purchased a duplex at 511 N. Detroit Street in LaGrange. With the assistance of grants, donations and volunteer labor, the organization renovated the structure and converted it into three apartments.

Agape Missions purchased a duplex at 511 N. Detroit Street in 2016. With the assistance of grants, donations and volunteer labor, the organization renovated the structure and converted it into three apartments. While Agape Missions was able to renovate the home with volunteer labor, the roof had to be replaced in two stages by professionals because of its steep pitch. The second portion of the roof was the final major renovation that needed to be complete before winter, said Steve Sherck, the organization’s vice president.

Presently, individuals and families are able to stay at Brian’s House for up to three months for free and reduced costs. In addition to housing, Agape Missions also provides assistance with financial mentoring, job search assistance and transportation needs.

Other recent LCCF Community Impact Grant awards include:

  • Elijah Haven, Safe Dates Curriculum at the LaGrange County high schools, $1,750.
  • Reason 4 Hope, Your Life Speaks School Assembly program, $2,000.
  • Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry, Providing meat donations to local food pantries, $2,500.
  • ACRES, Land maintenance of LaGrange County preserves, $1,500.

The foundation’s Community Impact Grant program provides opportunities for local nonprofits seeking funds. The foundation awards grants for innovative and creative projects and programs that are responsive to changing community needs.