I am writing to share some exciting updates about our ongoing cafeteria renovation project and to express our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support.



As you may know, our cafeteria has been a cornerstone of the Christian Renewal Center since its construction in 1966. Originally designed to serve 60 people, it now caters to an average of 130 guests each weekend, with some weekends accommodating up to 200 individuals. In 2023 alone, we served 23,793 meals across 140 retreats. The increasing demand has highlighted the need for significant upgrades to ensure that our facilities continue to meet the needs of our growing community.



Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the support of four foundations, we have raised $117,000 toward our goal of $145,000 for the cafeteria renovation. This funding has allowed us to make substantial progress on several key aspects of the project:

Kitchen Expansion: The kitchen, originally designed for 60 people, will be expanded to meet the needs of 2 to 3 times that number. This includes additional refrigeration space, double the oven and stovetop capacity, and a new dishwasher drying station to accommodate the increased volume of dishes. We are also adding more food preparation space to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
Accessibility Improvements: We are committed to ensuring that all our facilities are accessible to everyone. As part of the renovation, we will be making the restrooms within the cafeteria wheelchair accessible, allowing all guests to use them comfortably.
Enhanced Lighting and Design: To improve visibility and create a welcoming atmosphere, we will be increasing the lighting throughout the cafeteria. This enhancement will make the space brighter on overcast days and during the winter months. Additionally, we will be incorporating window designs that reflect and spread our Faith, as well as adding a wall of Saints representing the diverse community of our archdiocese.
Exterior Upgrades: We will be replacing the rotted exterior siding to ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of the building.


In the past 12 months, we have also upgraded the HVAC systems, thanks to previous grant funding, which has already made a significant difference in the comfort of our facilities.



We began this phase of the renovation in June and anticipate completing it by Fall 2024. However, we still have an estimated need of $28,000 to fully fund the project. Your support has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life, and we are reaching out to ask if you would consider contributing to help us close this remaining gap.



Your donation will directly impact our ability to complete this essential renovation and continue serving our community with excellence. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference and brings us closer to our goal.



Thank you for your unwavering support and generosity. Together, we are creating a space that not only meets the practical needs of our growing community but also reflects our shared values and faith.



If you have any questions or would like to discuss your potential contribution, please do not hesitate to contact us. We deeply appreciate your consideration and look forward to celebrating the completion of this important project with you.