The Caring Place has several changes coming in 2017.[/caption]

As 2017 gets into full swing, The Caring Place is preparing for some changes.

To better maximize space and deliver services to people in crisis, The Caring Place’s client service department will be moving out of its main building at 2000 Railroad Ave. to its annex across the street at 2001 Railroad Ave. The move, which is expected to take place this summer, will also help allow
on-site expansion of its food pantry and retail operations, according to the organization.

The center, which works to provide assistance to families in financial crisis throughout Georgetown and Northern Williamson County through services such as emergency financial assistance and food programs, also said it has its eye on expansion.

Executive Director Ginna O’Connor said The Caring Place is looking into opportunities to open an additional retail space west of I-35.

“We are open to that possibility,” O’Connor said. “We are engaged in exploring the opportunity, but it would have to be the right one.”

A six-month pilot outreach project which provided on-site assistance to people needing assistance in more rural areas, including Florence, Granger, Jarrell and Bartlett, is also wrapping up.

"In order to keep pace with the growth we're experiencing while being the best possible stewards of our existing resources, we are going to focus our efforts on the services we offer in Georgetown," said O'Connor.

O’Connor said the program will be revisited down the road when more resources are available. In the meantime, The Caring Place and transportation services such as CARTS will work to provide assistance and transportation to those needing to get to the Georgetown office.