The Children’s Advocacy Center of Cherokee County will soon let bids for renovation of its new headquarters located in the former Martha Jo Jordan home on North River Street in Centre. Lori Lumsden, executive director, CACCC, gave an update during the March Breakfast meeting of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce.

The Advocacy Center was able to secure a $250,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) through the city of Centre, which served as the host agency for the grant. Cherokee County, Lumsden explained, was not able to apply for a grant at this time because of a grant already in progress. There is an 18-month waiting period to apply for another grant.

“The city stepped up to the plate and did not want us to lose that opportunity,” said Lumsden. “When we started out, the Chamber of Commerce gave us their building and it didn’t work out. Lots of people stepped up to the plate.”

“Most of you are aware by reading the paper or listening to the radio about all of our changes,” said Lumsden. “Some of you are wondering why we have taken so long to do what we’ve done and we are asking the same question. But we have tried to make the best decisions.”

Centre Mayor Tony Wilkie presented plans for the new CACCC building available for citizens’ perusal.

“Some of you may wish to sponsor a room and have that room decorated for us,” said Lumsden. “Bids started last Tuesday and they will conclude in three weeks. We will open bids April 7. We should know who our contractor will be and who will be renovating this facility. I really appreciate those of you who have worked the front lines and those of you who have worked behind the scenes probably not receiving the credit you deserve, but I do appreciate what has been done.”