Warren Family Mission seeks aid

Donations have been cut by a fourth since Sept. 11.
WARREN -- Warren Family Mission is asking for the public's help to keep programs on track and possibly expand its new Elm Road facility.
The operation is the former Warren Rescue Mission, which served men in a residential Niles Road facility.
The Rev. Chris Gilger said the mission moved to Elm Road in March, when an old school building was donated, near Scott and Porter streets.
Since then, the mission has expanded its services and offers life skills and anger management classes, children's sports programs, space for Alcoholics Anonymous and space to provide meals and food baskets to the community.
The Rev. Mr. Gilger said donations are down by a fourth since America became the target of terrorism Sept. 11.
The mission accepts monetary and material donations, including food. To donate, call 394-5437 or send a check to 361 Elm Road N.E., Warren 44483.
About 100 turkeys are being given away to area families this year, and the mission expects to serve between 200 and 500 that day.
It's also offering a Christmas Wonderland program to supply needy families with gifts.
Mr. Gilger said the mission hopes to fill its gym with gifts so that families can pick up gifts to take home to their loved ones. Donations are being accepted for children and their parents.
Part of the building was constructed in 1890 and another was built in 1950.
The older part needs about $1 million in renovations, but Mr. Gilger said it can be done for less than that and the mission has received offers for free labor.
The plan is to keep expanding and eventually provide space for women's and children's services.
A medical clinic is also in the works, Mr. Gilger said.