Tribune Chronicle
WARREN - The YWCA of Warren will be kicking off a campaign to help remodel its building.
Shari Harrell, executive director, said at the annual meeting that plans are to refurbish the building's northern end where the swimming pool and lockers are and which have not been used since 2006.
Harrell said efforts are to secure grants to create a 12-unit permanent supportive housing area for women and children through a partnership with Beatitude House and Coleman Professional Services, a housing management agency.
There are three funding sources that will help cover the total project costs of $2 million: City of Warren Housing Fund, Ohio Housing Financing Agency and Federal Home Loan Board.
"We are in the final stages of securing the grants,'' Harrell said.
She said plans are to break ground late this summer on the first phase.
Harrell said in addition to the housing area, the building also will be made more energy efficient and handicapped accessible.
''We want to make the building more usable,'' she said.
The capital project includes repaving two parking lots, installing energy efficient windows and repairing the gym roof.
The locker room space will be converted into a space for childcare and tech-friendly classrooms for the women's classes and after-school teen programs.
Danette Palmer, director of development for the YWCA, said the project will help to create an atmosphere of a community hub for women and children.
She said the YWCA wants to address the most critical needs of women and children by making resources available.
Harrell said the YWCA will be addressing women's economic independence, youth development and enrichment and housing for women and families.
For information, call 330-373-1010.