Gladstone St. Vincent’s de Paul breaks ground on new expansion
The Daily Press
May 16, 2011
GLADSTONE – Increased demand for services have dictated an additional expansion of the current St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) facility in Gladstone. A groundbreaking ceremony for an addition to the facility was held last week.
SVDS has been serving Delta County for more than 45 years. According to SVDP officials, the addition will enhance the ability of the group to serve those in need in many ways. The 7,400 square feet of additional space will include a basement area and upper level.
Two client services rooms will be added to allow volunteers to interview and service clients in a more private and compassionate manner.
The food bank will be relocated from the basement to the first floor. The move will allow for more food to be stored with easier access. A loading dock will also be installed to assist in the food handling process.
Big ticket items will also be moved up from the basement. This will allow for more donations without increased labor and handling. The new big ticket area will be for displaying and selling larger household items like dressers, beds, tables and chairs. Moving these items will make them available to shoppers with physical limitations and help increase sales, SVDP officials said.
The donation of household items is a major source of income for the store.
In recent months the number of those in need has risen sharply and SVDP officials said they believe this trend will continue. Gladstone St. Vincent’s Building Capital Fund Drive started with a $500 donation from the Gladstone Lions. Sponsors of the annual Escanaba Downtown Ribfest also announced funds from Ribfest 2011, to be held June 3 from 3 to 6 p.m., will be donated to the fund drive. Area businesses, service clubs, churches and private citizens are being asked by the SVDP to find out more and assist however they can. Donations can be mailed to: P.O. Box 310 Gladstone, MI 49837 or dropped off at the St. Vincent de Paul store in Gladstone. Checks should be made out to: Gladstone St. Vincent de Paul Building Capital Fund Drive