The Holy Spirit Knights of Columbus were recently honored with a visit from Brother Knight and parishioner Mr. Bob Jarding, board member for the Bishop Dudley House in Sioux Falls, SD. Mr. Jarding shared an inspiring update on their capital campaign for family housing. This critical initiative is dedicated to transforming the lives of families in need, and Bob’s heartfelt message underscored the community’s collective effort to provide safe and supportive temporary housing.
Mr. Jarding explained how the Hospitality House, in partnership with the ICAP (Inter-Lakes Community Action Partnership), successfully applied for a HUD grant, enabling them to purchase and renovate the old Children’s Inn facility on Western Ave. in Sioux Falls. The renovations have converted a portion of this facility into ten family rooms designed to offer a transitional living space. Bob emphasized, “We hope we can turnaround in 80 days to get [the families] in and out,” illustrating the goal of providing temporary relief and a path to stability for these families.
To sustain this ambitious project, the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House has launched a $3.5 million dollar capital campaign. This campaign covers not only the renovations but also the operational costs required to staff the facility 24/7. Bob highlighted the financial challenges, stating, “We increased our budget annually by about three quarters of a million dollars with wages and extra expenses.”
The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Bob noted, “Holy Spirit has given very generously to this organization,” acknowledging the significant contributions from the parish and its members. He also mentioned various fundraising events like the “Taste of Goodness” and the “Fall Sleep Out” which have played crucial roles in raising awareness and funds.
Mr. Jarding’s appeal to the Knights was both a call for financial support and a reminder of the impact of community involvement. He stressed the importance of donations of all sizes, saying, “Some people can give six figures some people can give five some can give three… we’ll take care of you.”
Mr. Jarding’s speech illuminated the pressing need for continued support and the profound difference these efforts make in the lives of those served by the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House. As a community, let us continue to stand together, contributing what we can to this noble cause. Your generosity, whether large or small, helps create a safe haven for families in need and supports their journey toward a brighter future.
For those interested in contributing or volunteering, more information can be found through the Holy Spirit parish office, the Holy Spirit Knights of Columbus, or by contacting the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House directly.