KOSCIUSKO — In 1985 the Altrusa Club of Warsaw identified the need in Kosciusko County for a safe place for local domestic violence victims to flee from their abusers.  At that time, victims of domestic violence had no place to go to make a fresh start when escaping their abusive relationship.  There was a house on South Detroit Street, that was owned by Grace Beaman who then worked at Prairie View Nursing Home (now called the Meadows of Warsaw) which was located directly behind the property on Prairie Street.  Grace was known for her generosity and humanity for helping others by renting and sheltering those in need in her house.  The house was purchased by the owner of Prairie View Nursing Home in the hope of expanding the Prairie View parking lot; however, after much consideration, the owner, M. Charlene Bradbury, decided to donate the property for the purpose of sheltering victims of domestic violence in honor of Grace Beaman, who became the namesake of The Beaman Home. 

Over the 4th of July week this year, descendants of Grace Beaman came together from all parts of the country, with some coming from as far away as Oregon.  Continuing the legacy of Grace Beaman, as part of their family reunion, family members wanted to spend one day blessing the Beaman Home by working on needed projects and helping in some way.  Nearly 30 members, organized in teams with matching t-shirts for specific families, came together on July 3 to help in the spirit of giving. 

With the second floor of the Beaman Home about to open up 29 more beds, there were plenty of last minute projects that needed completing.  Everyone was put to work moving furniture, organizing items in the basement, hanging pictures, and mopping floors.  The Master Gardener of the group even headed up a team and planted flower beds out front.  Even the kids were given jobs and they were very excited to help.  The group was provided a delicious lunch with home-baked pies for their effort.  They celebrated the rest of the week.

Beaman Home is very thankful for the Grace Beaman family members who honored their founding mother, by continuing her legacy of generosity, humanity and caring spending their vacation together participating in this labor of love.

Beaman Home has provided services to Kosciusko, Fulton, and Marshall Counties’ victims of domestic violence and their children since 1985. If you, or someone you know, is a victim of assault or abuse – there is help!  Please do not hesitate to contact Beaman Home’s Toll Free 24/7 Crisis Hotline at (877) 725-9363.