Catholic Charities CEO Vincent Ignizio says Mt. Loretto’s food pantry serves hundreds every month.
"The pantry is this. It’s a trailer. Its not very dignified. Its hard enough to for somebody to say I need help for food," said Ignizio.
He plans to move the pantry into another campus building following a renovation.
"It makes it more like a shopping experience. People can come in and take what they need whether it would be clothing and food and do it in a fashion that is presentable," added Ignizio.
It's one of several upgrades expected at Mt. Loretto. Ignizio says a new volleyball court is on the way. He says the site's current sports fields and basketball courts are being restored. Ignizio says community groups and sports teams are helping with the renovations.
"Its exciting. If you parcel it out, the community responds. They always have and they continue to do so," said Ignizio.
Long-term projects are also in the works like adding artificial turf to this gym, allowing local sports teams to practice indoors year round. Several children's camps, an Irish festival and a food truck event are planned for the summer.
Ignizio was an elected official here on Staten Island for more than a decade. He says often times people ask him if he misses the job.
"I get to work for the community like I did when I was in elected office without hearing what a jerk I am everyday. That's a positive. When people call I am happy to give them Joe Borelli's number," said Ignizio.
For a schedule of upcoming events visit mountloretto.org.