New building in place for Chelsey’s Project

By Sam Waller

Chelsey’s Project is getting back on its feet following a December fire that destroyed the original building and its contents.

On Friday, April 15, the ministry received a new portable building at its location at 598 N. Sixth St.

Founder and coordinator Blanca Sanchez continued providing diapers and wipes to local families in need despite the disruption caused by the fire.

“Once the word got out that Blanca’s small house where she kept her diapers had burned down, Albany rallied behind her to help replace some of the diapers,” Closet Angels director Lori Reames said.
“Her insurance only covered part of the loss, but she came up with enough to buy a portable building to replace the old house.”

Sanchez’s husband, Ramiro, and children Ashley and Austin, helped to partially insulate one end of the portable building. They hope to add more insulation and shelving in the future. For now, there is portable shelving in place.

“She needs more chrome shelving and diapers of all sizes, but Chelsey’s Project is well on its way to recovering from the fire,” Reames said. “Blanca has always had a big heart for people, and seeing moms, grandmothers, and foster families struggle to provide diapers for their littles weighed heavily on her.”

Chelsey’s Project started in 2012 as an offshoot of Closet Angels.

“I was blessed to witness the moment Blanca was ministering to a young single mom,” Reames said. “She blew me away with how far she went to help the mom create a better life for herself and her baby. Through that experience, she used her own money and resources to start Chelsey’s Project.”

Funded primarily by Sanchez’s family, the project also receives monies from local donors as well as a small amount from the Albany Chest. To contribute, contact Sanchez at 325-668-0657 or leave diapers and wipes in the blue donation bin behind Closet Angels, located at 132 S. Jacobs St.

Donations are also being accepted at First Financial Bank.