b'Completion of the centers renovation brought the building up to code and created a more functional space for the more than twoThe SARCC story in dozen recovery and wellness meetings held there each week, asbroad strokes:well as for special occasion functions. The new center boasts three 25-year-old large meeting rooms and a smaller conference room; additionalorganizationoffice space; and an art gallery. Sprinklers, an elevator, and five 113-year-old buildinghandicapped-accessible restrooms were also added. $25,000 ECCF grant 25,000 peopleSomething else accomplished with their new space was the served in 2021addition of a full-scale kitchen. Prior to the renovation, the staffat SARCC realized that providing food alongside support group meetings was a great wayto engage people in their programming. Food is communal, says Christopher Ruff, SARCC Program Director. It brings people together, allows them to share stories, and provides spiritual sustenance. For years, they had relied on slow cookers and microwaves when they wanted to provide a hot meal, andtheir new kitchen has already become a real hub for fellowship and nourishment. Joey adds, COVID-19 isolated people, and we saw a big increase in mental health challenges and deaths due to opioid addiction. Thanks to the outpouring of support weve received from the state, the Foundation, and our other generous donors, our community center is much better equipped and able to serve more people each year.'