Catholic Charities Breaks Ground on Outdoor Dining Pavilion

Just one of several major campus modifications amid current COVID climate, the Las Vegas nonprofit fortifies operations in order to best serve community.

Las Vegas, NV— (Sept. 14, 2020) – Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada has begun construction on its Outdoor Dining Pavilion, the latest modification to the nonprofit’s campus that will advance operations to better serve its local homeless population.

The forthcoming campus addition is a tent-covered, open-air dining and day center that will feature 280 socially distanced seats and tables to offer comfort and function for those that depend on the agency’s free community meal, served daily.

Funded by CARES Act and Coronavirus Relief Funds through the City of Las Vegas, in order to prepare, prevent, and respond to coronavirus, the expanded area will also serve as a temporary day shelter, and will include portable restrooms, hand washing stations, and fans. The expansive area leaves ample room for safe social distancing and respite from inclement weather.

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“While the pandemic has brought on drastic challenges to our community, thankfully we’ve been able to make appropriate adjustments to our programs and resources to continue to serve our clients with dignity, compassion and safety,” said Deacon Tom Roberts, CEO of Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada. “With the support of our partners at the City of Las Vegas, our clients will have the experience of a more appropriate facility to enjoy a nourishing meal, as well as access to additional resources.”

Other substantial modifications recently implemented on-site include an overhaul of the Men’s Emergency Night Shelter operations. Now at a 400-occupant capacity, the shelter’s modifications include a revised bed layout to implement social distancing, the addition of acrylic barriers, mandatory face coverings that are laundered daily, and an enhanced sanitization process, to better provide for the health and safety of shelter clients and Catholic Charities staff.

Further, Catholic Charities has also begun planning construction for a major renewable energy installation with national project developer, Catholic Energies. The project will include installation of photovoltaic panels, LED lighting, and roofing improvements. Upon completion, Catholic Charities will realize annual energy savings, embracing the call for environmental stewardship through solar and energy efficiency, furthering its sustainable practices and reallocating funds to further pursue its overall mission. The renewable energy project is anticipated to be completed by Dec. 31, 2020.

“We do not intend to back down during a difficult period, and especially while navigating an uncertain future, these fortifications are vital to allow our organization to continue serving those in greatest need in our community,” Roberts concluded.

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About Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada
Since 1941, the mission of Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada has been to serve those in need — the most vulnerable — regardless of race, religion, or creed. This leading community resource offers help and hope with dignity as it strives to meet the diverse needs of men, women and children in Southern Nevada. Through the generosity of foundations, grants, organizations, and individual donors, Catholic Charities operates 16 programs providing support to more than 4,200 people daily and encompassing four core areas: Family Services, Food Services, Immigration and Refugee Services, and Homeless and Housing Services. Catholic Charities also operates the largest Meals on Wheels program and Emergency Shelter Services in Southern Nevada. For additional information, please visit CatholicCharities.com.

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