PRESS RELEASE

LAS VEGAS – Local nonprofit Lutheran Social Services of Nevada (LSSN) is expanding services with a new $3.75 million headquarters that provides the space and innovation to expand LSSN’s client base and offer more comprehensive services to low income and food insecure seniors, individuals and families.  The public is invited to a special open house and dedication Thursday, April 5, 2 – 5 p.m.  Media are invited for a sneak peek between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

The 7,332 square-foot energy efficient building is located at 4323 Boulder Highway. Indoor space features a Nutrition Education Kitchen for clients to learn how to cook healthy meals, family empowerment services, kiosks for clients to order healthy food from LSSN’s digital food pantry, and new office space for staff to assist with rental assistance, SNAP and other job empowerment services.  Outdoor space will feature a Tranquility Garden for clients to relax and socialize.

Opening New Doors will also house staff and supplies for LSSN mobile programs such as Open-Air Markets, a program that annually provides 150,000 pounds of fresh produce to over 5,000 individuals living in ‘food deserts,” and Heart of the City, a program that provides 8,500 meals annually to local seniors. 

“Opening New Doors is a historic opportunity for LSSN to offer clients a collaborative approach to providing more comprehensive services.  Our new state-of-the-art facility is both environmentally responsible and cost-efficient,” said Armena Mnatsakanyan, executive director of LSSN.  “We’ll be able to serve additional clients in a more comprehensive and efficient manner, as services will all be available under one roof.”

In addition to expanding LSSN’s current food pantry, programs, and mainstream benefit and application assistance, Opening New Doors will provide critical need services under one roof with the collaboration of several onsite community partners, including Nevada Homeless Alliance, Multicultural Wellness West and the Just One Project.

“Our goal was to create a one-stop shop for LSSN clients by providing key services under one roof, so they don’t have to travel to different areas of town as many rely on public transportation,” Mnatsakanyan adds. “If we serve our clients in an innovative environment, many more clients will thrive.”

The project is funded by a $2.9 million Community Development Block Grant through Clark County. Additionally, over 200 community-minded individuals, families, and companies have financially supported Opening New Doors.  To date, the Opening New Doors campaign has raised nearly $3.4 million toward the $3.75 million goal, from contributions ranging from $5 to $2.9 million.  

“This project is the first of its kind,” said Marta Poling Schmitt, local philanthropist and co-chair of LSSN’s Opening New Doors campaign. “We’re inviting the community to learn more about Opening New Doors and the people we serve.’

To learn more about Opening New Doors or to schedule a tour, please call 702- 839-8777, or visit www.lssnv.org.

About Lutheran Social Services of Nevada

For over 21 years Lutheran Social Services of Nevada (LSSN) has been providing compassionate human services to low-income seniors, individuals and families in urban-core areas of Southern Nevada. Our mission is to express the love of Christ by serving and caring for people in need. Although Lutheran-based, LSSN is open and inclusive in the services we offer. We have an extensive non-discrimination policy, which applies to our employment policies and service delivery. LSSN is accredited by the United Way of Southern Nevada and by the State of Nevada.