Congratulations to the following organizations that received Operation Round Up grants in the fourth quarter. These grants totaled $15,050.

PORTER TOWNSHIP VOL. FIREMEN INC. (BOONE GROVE FIRE DEPARTMENT) received a grant of $3,000 to purchase replacement safety equipment for the firefighters. The Boone Grove Fire Department has 20 volunteer members serving 48 square miles.

THE CARING PLACE, INC. OF VALPARAISO will use its $5,550 grant to stock its new Caring Closet at The Caring Place. This closet includes essential clothing items that will be given free to clients and children who arrive at the shelter with only the clothing on their backs. The Caring Place provides services, shelter, and ongoing support for people experiencing domestic violence.

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CONFERENCE OF THE ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY was formed in 2014 to effectively respond to the needs of the impoverished residents of Starke County. With their $3,000 grant, they can continue their mission by assisting those in need with food and gas.

MORGAN TOWNSHIP VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT received $3,500 to purchase thermal imagining cameras. When entering a structure, firefighters will use these cameras to detect heat and locate sources in low visibility conditions. The fire department has 25 active members and three cadets who made over 240 calls in 2023.