PHOTO PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
GRANT … The Power in the Purse (PIP) women’s giving circle, affiliated with the Bryan Area Foundation, held its first-quarter meeting in January. All those in attendance learned about three local nonprofits making a difference in our area and then voted to award a $5,550 grant to Bread of Life Community Center. Housed in the former First Lutheran Church, the organization is committed to improving the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of those living in the northeast neighborhood and the surrounding areas of Bryan, Ohio, through educational programs, feeding ministries, and community activities. Started by Pastor Richard Franks and his wife, PIP member Betty Franks, Bread of Life Community Center has seen a dramatic increase in the need for its services. PIP monies would be used to expand their programming to reach more families and children. Pictured left to right in the front row during the check presentation are PIP member Emily Ebaugh, Bread of Life Community Center Board member Greta Krilley, PIP member Betty Franks, Bread of Life Community Center representative Naya Ortega, and PIP member Cheryl Andres. Left to right in the second row are Bread of Life Community Center representative Bronson Ebaugh, PIP members Dee Krill, Debra Beevers, Vickie Bostater, and Rosemary Hug, and Bread of Life representatives Ashley Konoff and Norm Echler. Since 2016, PIP’s women members have given $261,840 to 49 area nonprofits, which support their programs and improve the quality of life in northwest Ohio. If you are interested in learning more or joining PIP, visit the Bryan Area Foundation website.