A $30,800 grant from the Harry W. Morrison Foundation in Boise will fund the first significant renovation of St. Vincent de Paul’s Social Services area in more than a decade, with construction set to begin September 2 in Pocatello.
The two-week project will address deteriorating conditions in the facility that serves residents facing financial hardship. Work will include installation of new commercial tile flooring, fresh paint, and replacement doors throughout the Social Services wing.
According to St. Vincent de Paul manager Beth Huston, the current space falls short of the organization’s mission. “The current state of the social services area is not warm and welcoming. With these improvements, we will be able to create a dignified, clean and positive environment for our clients who may be in financial crisis,” Huston told the EastIdahoNews.com in a statement. The facility has suffered from badly scratched floors and graffiti on walls.
Community Support Moves Project Forward
Multiple local businesses are contributing to the renovation effort. Factory Direct Floors is handling installation of the new flooring, Little Feller Painting is managing the paint work, and Idaho Wholesale Hardware is replacing the doors. Four J’s Portable Toilets of Pocatello and other donors are covering additional project costs, with volunteers pitching in throughout the renovation process.
Service Adjustments During Construction
St. Vincent de Paul will adjust its service schedule during the renovation period. The weekly food pantry will close on Wednesday, September 9. The thrift store will remain open during regular business hours but will suspend accepting donations from September 3 through September 9.
Social Services office hours are Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Range of Community Services
St. Vincent de Paul operates multiple programs to address community needs in Pocatello and Bannock County. The organization runs a thrift store, manages a weekly food pantry, and provides direct financial assistance to households struggling to cover essential expenses.
Financial assistance through the organization covers rent, utilities, and medical bills. St. Vincent de Paul also distributes vouchers for clothing, furniture, gasoline, bus tickets, school supplies, and household goods to qualifying applicants.
The renovation represents a tangible investment in the facility’s capacity to serve the community during a period of sustained economic pressure on working families. The Pocatello Greek Festival continues to draw thousands for its longstanding tradition of community gathering, reflecting the broad range of civic institutions supporting the local population.
What Comes Next
Construction is scheduled to conclude within two weeks of the September 2 start date. St. Vincent de Paul will resume normal Social Services operations following project completion. Community members seeking assistance or wishing to support the organization’s mission are encouraged to contact the office during posted hours or visit the thrift store.