Lakeland Learning Center in Syracuse suffered a fire Thursday morning. Though no one was hurt, the building was significantly damaged. The Turkey Creek Township Fire Department says it was an electrical fire, and they had it under control within 15 minutes of arriving.
The United Way of Kosciusko County says Wawasee Schools is allowing the center to use the old Syracuse Elementary School building as they open for business Tuesday September 5.
Though local fire departments have not yet determined a damage estimate, the United Way is asking for donations to help the center get up and running. Their collection drive is going on now, and those who want to help can drop-off donations at the Center Street offices for the United Way in Warsaw Friday September 1 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The group is looking for the following items:
- Consumables- Baby Wipes, Diapers Sizes 1-4, Hand Soap, Paper Towels
- Food- Enfamil Infant Formula with Iron, Ready to Feed (not powdered), Jars of Baby Food: Stage 1 Fruits and Veggies, Oatmeal Infant Cereal, Rice Infant Cereal
- Care Items- Bibs, Baby blankets, Burp rags, Crib sheets, Toddler Nap blankets, Towels, Washcloths
- Health Items- Baby Bottles, Baby Spoons, 4 First Aid Kits, 4 Thermometers
- Furniture- 3 Changing Tables, 2 Exersaucers (no wheels), 3 Bouncy Seats, 2 High Chairs, 2 Adult Rocking Chairs,3 Diaper Pails
- Toys- Books, Baby Toys, Blocks, Children’s Board Games, Puzzles
Those who would prefer to make a monetary donation can do so by writing a check to Lakeland Learning Center. The United Way of Kosciusko County is planning to deliver all donated items to the Lakeland Learning Center by the end of the day Friday.
