FALL RIVER – Saint Vincent’s Services (SVS), a leading behavioral outpatient health and congregate care placement provider for youth and families in Southeastern Massachusetts, is upgrading its central dining services area this spring. This Valentine’s Day, Saint Vincent’s Services is launching a special fundraising campaign to support an overdue expansion and renovation of its cafeteria—a central gathering space where children and staff come together to eat, connect, and heal. Fundraising for this project began at the 2025 Summer Celebration Gala in June at Shining Tides.

Architectural rendering of enhanced cafeteria

Valentine’s Day is about feeling loved, valued, and seen. For the children served by Saint Vincent’s Services, those feelings are foundational to well-being and long-term physical and emotional stability. Shared meals and simple treats offer more than comfort; they foster connection, routine, and joy—critical elements in creating a safe and supportive environment.

The proposed cafeteria expansion represents a investment of nearly $500,000 and will modernize a space that has not been updated in decades. Planned improvements will include an expanded outdoor patio, new outdoor seating, upgraded windows, and additional facility enhancements designed to improve functionality, accessibility, and overall experience.

Construction is projected to begin this spring, with completion anticipated by summer. Once completed, the upgraded cafeteria will support indoor and outdoor dining, summer cookouts, and daily moments of connection that strengthen community and belonging.

Architectural rendering of new outdoor seating

“This project is about more than construction—it’s about investing in a space where relationships are built and healing happens,” said Kristen L. Dutra, CEO. “Our cafeteria is the heart of our campus and Ashley McGraw Architects captured exactly what we wish to accomplish. With community support, we can raise the bar and create an environment that truly reflects the care our children deserve.”

Community members are encouraged to give from the heart this Valentine’s Day. Contributions directly support a transformational project that will create a bright, welcoming indoor dining space, an outdoor patio for fresh-air meals, and a warm, inclusive environment where community is always on the menu.

More information regarding the space or to make a donation this Valentine’s Day to support the upgrades, contact Katie Rose, Director of Donor Relations at development@stvservices.org or call 508-235-3228.


Established in 1885 by the Diocese of Fall River as an orphanage staffed by the Sisters of Mercy, Saint Vincent’s Services (SVS or Saint Vincent’s) today is a separately incorporated entity, a 501(c)(3) organization accredited by the Council on Accreditation. Saint Vincent’s is a multi-service behavioral health and child welfare trauma treatment organization serving over 1,000 children, youth, and families annually throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Fall River. Saint Vincent’s Service’s Mission is “We are committed to providing safe, comprehensive care for children, families, and our community through specialized services that build trust, encourage acceptance, and inspire hope.” For more information, please visit www.SaintVincentsServices.org.

Diocese of Fall River
Diocese of Fall River
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