From reports

BABE of Whitley County (BABE), a non-profit organization that provides resources and a community for Whitley County families, has spent the past year raising funds for a new place to call home. In the summer of 2023, BABE faced an unexpected challenge when their long-time lease on North Line Street was terminated. The United Methodist Church of Columbia City stepped in, offering temporary space for BABE to continue its vital services while searching for a new home.. Andy More, President and Owner of More Farm Store Inc., approached BABE’s executive director, Laura Tucker, with a solution. More had purchased the former Redman Plumbing and Heating building on West Van Buren Street and offered it as BABE’s new long-term home through a rental agreement that secures a space for BABE through at least the next decade.

“BABE is truly an asset for families here in Whitley County and needed a new location to expand their services,” said More. “The renovation of the old Redman building helps restore a piece of Columbia City history while also helping the families BABE serves.”

Tucker and her board of directors launched a fundraising campaign to make this opportunity a reality. Their efforts were crowned by a substantial $125,000 donation from The Chapman Charitable Trust, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of children, families, and communities. “We are so grateful for the generosity of the Chapman Charitable Trust. We would not have been able to do this without them,” said Tucker. “We’ve also received grants from The Community Foundation, Micropulse, and other local businesses. This show of support from the community has been incredible.” The new location in downtown Columbia City presents exciting possibilities for BABE. “The location could not be better,” Tucker enthused. “The foot traffic during downtown events will be a great opportunity for new families to learn about BABE, and now we can reach even more families.”

Construction and renovations are ongoing, with Tucker aiming to move BABE into the new building by the end of the year. For more information about BABE’s new home, contact Laura Tucker, Executive Director at laura@babewc.org. Donations for this project can also be made at babewc.org/donate.

BABE of Whitley County is a non-profit organization in Whitley County that serves over 1200 people. BABE provides quality incentives to parents who participate in preventive and prenatal care, including parenting, educational and nutritional classes to promote a healthy pregnancy, healthy birth outcomes, and early childhood development. In exchange for participating in preventive and prenatal care, participants are given a BABE Coupon that can be used to “purchase” diapers, wipes, clothes, strollers, and more at BABE’s store located on Line Street in Columbia City. BABE also hosts various mom groups and activities, and programs to support the families who need it most. Learn more at http://www.babewc.org.