A 60 day challenge to raise funds for Winamac's Memorial Bridge was achieved in just a matter of days.

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) launched a crowdfunding campaign to illuminate the Memorial Bridge, a 100-year old suspension bridge in Winamac, dedicated to local veterans.

The goal of the crowdfunding campaign was set at $30,000, to be raised by Sept. 15. Assuming a successful campaign, the project would receive a matching grant as part of IHCDA’s CreatINg Places program.

The Project is pleased to announce that with the support of the community, the $30,000 matching gift challenge was met in just days.

“We were confident our community would help us raise our goal of $30,000. You have done so!” said Fund Development Chair Kathi Thompson. “When our campaign ends on Sept. 15, we will receive a matching grant from IHCDA for $30,000!”

For the duration of the campaign, through Sept. 15, the community can continue to make contributions to fully fund the project. The bridge-lighting project is now within 10 percent of the final goal of nearly $300,000, and committee members will continue efforts to “bring the project home” by the end of the year. A centennial celebration for the Memorial Swinging Bridge is planned for July 4, 2023.

Contributions can be made at https://memorialswingingbridge.com/donate/, or checks may be sent, made out to Memorial Swinging Bridge Project, to P.O. Box 14, Winamac IN 46996.