LAKE LEELANAU — Leelanau Christian Neighbors has acquired the Leelanau Enterprise property and building, securing real estate adjacent to the nonprofit’s current facilities as part of what it called a long-term solution for growth.
The purchase was completed via a purchase money mortgage, according to the organization.
As part of the agreement, the Leelanau Enterprise has entered into a three-year lease to continue operating its business from the building. Leelanau Christian Neighbors said the lease payments will cover ongoing expenses of owning the property.
“Our ability to serve our neighbors is currently limited by our physical space,” Mary Stanton, executive director at Leelanau Christian Neighbors, said. “This property just happens to be right next door, making it the perfect location to eventually expand our services. While the Enterprise continues its important work in the building for the next three years, we can begin the thoughtful process of designing a space that meets the county’s growing needs.”
Leelanau Christian Neighbors said Leelanau County continues to see high demand for food and financial assistance and the organization has outgrown its current footprint.
The acquisition adds 4,800 square feet in the main building and an additional 2,500 square feet in the outbuilding, for a total of 7,300 square feet, according to the organization. It said finding suitable, affordable property in Leelanau County is difficult.
Leelanau Christian Neighbors is a nonprofit organization serving residents of Leelanau County. Its services include food and baby pantries, Blessings in a Backpack, the thrift store Samaritans’ Closet and financial assistance.
For more information on the nonprofit, click here.