The Catholic Charities Summit Community Center, 7437 W. Archer Ave., officially opened its doors to the public at the end May, and is already serving many neighbors seeking food assistance, social services, and other essential support.   

After more than two decades of serving families through a food pantry at St. Blase Church, and as demand for services continues to grow, Catholic Charities is actively seeking volunteers to support the center’s work in welcoming guests, assisting with food pantry operations, and supporting other services that help individuals and families access care with dignity and compassion. 

“Catholic Charities remains committed to serving our friends and neighbors in Summit and the surrounding areas,” said Ed Leiser, Director of the Summit Community Center. “We had the honor of serving Summit for many years at the St. Blase Food Pantry and now are excited to offer even more programming and services at the Summit Community Center. Our food pantry will have extended hours, and residents will enjoy our new programs and services as well.”  

In addition to the pantry offering of fruits, vegetables, meat, and canned goods, the Summit Community Center also offers a basic needs room where clients can pick up essentials such as diapers and hygiene kits. Case managers are also present to help clients with other needs and concerns, such as rental and utility assistance. 

The first floor of the new Community Center includes a food pantry, a central gathering room where coffee, snacks, and hot meals are served, an industrial kitchen, and a basic-needs distribution room. The second floor includes classrooms for tutoring and job training, counseling suites, flexible meeting rooms, and spaces for partner agencies to use as they provide vital wrap-around services for neighbors in need. 

The 6,576-square-foot building was completely renovated with funding from grants and private donations. Guests were excited about the new space. 

“I think it’s really nice,” said Jazmyne, 26, who was grateful to shop in the new food pantry after being laid off from her job. “I’ve heard so much about it and it’s nice Catholic Charities is expanding. It’s a nice location with lots of parking.” 

The gathering spaces also will help build community for visitors to the Summit Community Center. 

“This is where I hope people will find some peace and comfort,” Ed said. “This is so spacious, well-lit and warm. We’ll have the television on, host some community events, have the younger kids play in the kids’ corner, and let our guests have a chance to relax.” 

Summit Community Center 7437 W. Archer Ave., Summit  (708) 325-8990  Food Pantry and Basic Needs Room Hours:  Mondays: 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.  Thursdays: 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.  Fridays: 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.  Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.  Community meals will be served weekly at 5 p.m. on Wednesdays.