Sterling House Community Center Given 14K​ Square-Foot Donation

STRATFORD, CT — The Sterling House Community Center in Stratford on Wednesday became the official owner of Erin's Gym, a 14,000 square-foot structure that has sat on the SHCC grounds since it was completed a decade ago.

The gym was donated by the family of Erin Babineau and the Babineau Memorial Fund, the community center said in a news release.

"We are thankful, honored, and inspired to continue the family’s remarkable legacy in expanding our programs and deepening our impact for youth in our community," the release reads.

The gym was constructed in memory of Erin Marie Babineau, a 10-year-old Connecticut resident killed in a bus accident in Jamaica in 2005.

"She will always be remembered as young athletes enter the building and learn about Erin and the gift her family gave to Sterling House," the release states. "These kids will continue on her path of having fun, smiling and laughing. The facility will forever be called 'Erin's Gym' and be strictly used for youth programs."

The gym, turf field and birthday room are available to rent. Inquiries can be directed to Sterling House Athletic Director Catherine Proto at cproto@sterlinghousecc.org or 203-378-2606, extension 104.

Donations can be made to the Erin Babineau Memorial Fund at 180 Pilgrim Lane, Stratford, CT 06614. Checks should be made out to EBMF Inc.