St. Andrew’s parish building now offered as a family visitation place

Through a burgeoning effort, the Advent House next to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Greencastle is now being offered for use as a visitation place. The impetus is to put previously unused space to a community need.

The building houses the priest’s and administrator’s offices, as well as storage on the first floor for the Putnam County Non-Food Pantry. The second floor, however, with three bedrooms and a bathroom, has been unused except for storing church-related materials.

During a visit with Church Buildings for Collaborative Partnerships (CBCP) and community partners in January 2023, it was discussed how the Department of Child Services (DCS) and other related entities do not have private venues for visitations. Rather, they are typically conducted at fast food restaurants and other public settings.

“All are categorical in their frustration with this situation,” the church stated as to consulting with DCS and local fast food locations. “St. Andrew’s wants to provide the families of our community a more suitable location for these visits.”

As such, the church pursued a matching grant from CBCP to renovate the second floor of the building. This is so families can have a distraction-free setting with rooms furnished with toys and books.

The parking lot and a playground area are not visible from the street, further promoting privacy and safety. A push key lock will make the space readily available.

The church stated that the space is open to public defenders and lactation specialists and their clients, as well as foster parents. Through a partnership with Beyond Homeless, space-challenged families needing a place to visit while divorces or protective orders are pending are also welcome.

Those requesting to use the space are asked to read and sign a use agreement form.

“Opening this church space to DCS and Greencastle neighbors puts unused areas to a much-needed and singular use that is beneficial to the community and sustainable by the congregation at St. Andrew’s,” the church provided.

Persons with questions may contact the church at 653-3921 or standrewsgreencastle@gmail.com.