Grand Valley Catholic Outreach

Background Statement

Building upon services offered since 1970, Grand Valley Catholic Outreach was formally incorporated as a legal nonprofit in 1988. Since that time over fifty churches have joined in this effort to provide basic needs services to those who are vulnerable rather than duplicate services. The organization uses 'catholic 'in the universal sense and is supported broadly by individuals, businesses, and organizations who wish to help fulfill its mission either as volunteers or as donors.

Initially a Soup Kitchen and Clothing Bank were opened. During the next decade, in response to growing and unmet needs in the community, financial aid, emergency food, and shelter programs were added. 'Almost Home' (a housing locator), and a Day Center providing laundry, shower and medical services for homeless adults came next. The Book-in-Hand program to promote literacy among young children appeared in the late nineties.

Housing programs have also been put in place. Transitional Supportive Housing offers individuals the opportunity to end homelessness through cooperative living, counseling, and training. Permanent Supportive Housing combines affordable housing with voluntary support services to address the needs of chronically homeless people. The services are designed to build independent living and tenancy skills and connect people with community-based health care, treatment, and employment services. St Benedict Place and St Martin Place are housing complexes built by Catholic Outreach that give 62 formerly homeless individuals a place to call home.

Currently under construction and opening in early 2025, Mother Teresa Place will provide apartments that will allow 40 individuals to move out of homelessness.

We invite you to join in these ongoing efforts.