Catholic Charities Breaks Ground on New Facility in Hays

In a groundbreaking event held on Friday, January 26, Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas marked a significant milestone with the commencement of construction on a new 9,000 sq. ft. facility in Hays. The celebration, attended by over 100 individuals, showcased the future home that promises to bolster the organization's mission and services across Northwest Kansas.

Megan Robl, executive director for Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas, welcomed attendees, recounting the organization's history spanning over 60 years. The initial outreach facility in Hays, established in 1983, has grown to serve over 600 families annually across 16 counties. The demand for services has surged, leading to the need for expanded space.

The key announcement of the day was the generous donation by Verlin and Elaine Pfannenstiel, who contributed the entire building, more than tripling the current capacity of Catholic Charities in Hays. The new facility, planned to open next fall, will include features such as a spacious warehouse, updated offices, and even an on-site Thrift Store.

Architect Donnie Marrs, who designed the facility, highlighted the thoughtful consideration for both current and future needs, emphasizing the creation of spaces that foster growth in response to changing community needs.

Robl expressed gratitude to various individuals and organizations, including Commercial Builders, the general contractor set to kick off construction on March 4. The project's success is a result of collaborative efforts from around the diocese.

The celebration also included a campaign update from Jessica Allen, Director of Development for Catholic Charities. With a fundraising goal of $1,216,000, the organization has made significant progress, with only 20% left to reach. Contributions from the Kansas Department of Commerce Community Service Tax Credit Program and the Patterson Family Foundation have been pivotal in achieving this milestone.

Allen emphasized that every contribution, big or small, brings them closer to their goal.
"We're 80 percent there, so we only have $250,000 left," she said.

The event also included a symbolic swinging of the sledgehammer, officially marking the beginning of the construction project, and a blessing from Bishop Jerry Vincke.

"I'm thrilled about this possibility because it's going to make what we do so much even more prevalent in our communities," he said, "not only in Hays but throughout the rest of the diocese as well. We're continuing the ministry of Jesus, proclaiming good news to the poor, giving hope to those who are lost and confused, and telling people that God is with them through it all.”

As the construction progresses, Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas looks forward to fulfilling its mission by providing compassionate services to those in need in the expanded and improved space in Hays.