Article taken from the Alabama Free Will Baptist Digest

A ground breaking for a large pavilion was held on Saturday, May 2nd at the Free Will Baptist Children’s Home in Eldridge. Board members, Eldridge Toy Run Benefit Team leaders, and contracted company representatives joined the staff in officially starting construction on the new structure. When completed, the 120’ x 70’ metal building will provide recreational space for the children and a meeting location for large events. The building project, as approved by the Board of Directors, will be approximately $158,000. In addition to the structure, plans call for cement and paving to be done in the parking areas on the premises.  The Eldridge Benefit Team, a key supporter of the Home, is instrumental in this facility becoming a reality. Board Chairman, Rodney Yerby commented, “The Benefit Team through the annual Eldridge Toy Run and their financial support is a significant catalyst in our decision to build the pavilion.” He continued, “We are extremely appreciative of all they do for this ministry.”

Following the ground breaking, the project manager, Wayne Overton, announced the companies that would be involved in the construction of the structure: The metal building by Clint Bigbee of Bigbee Steel Buildings in Muscle Shoals; erecting by Mark McDonald of Northwest Bama Builders in Winfield; concrete by Dwight Roberts Concrete in Guin, doors by S & K Doors, and electric work by Roger Estes of ESCO in Winfield.   The facility will be constructed with several large garage doors on each side of the building to allow it to be an open air pavilion in good weather or be closed during inclement weather. Interim Director, Linda Berry, stated, “We are excited about this building. It certainly will provide our children a much better place to play, protected from the elements.” The project is estimated to be completed sometime in August.

The Free Will Baptist Children’s Home has been caring for children since 1947. The Home purposes to provide a Christian home, training, and education that will enable the child to enter adulthood as a responsible Christian man or woman. More information about this ministry can be found by calling 205-924-9751 or visiting www.eldridgefwbchildrenshome.org. (supplied by Danny Williams)