Servant’s Heart Ministry Receives $250K Bolger Foundation Grant for The Great Falls Center
Based on an article published by Tri-State Voice.
PATERSON, NJ — Servant’s Heart Ministry has received a $250,000 grant from The Bolger Foundation for the continued build-out of The Great Falls Center in Paterson, Executive Director John Oostdyk announced.
The award was a challenge grant: to qualify, Servant’s Heart Ministry was tasked with raising $2,250,000. Thanks to the generosity of its donors, the goal was met on May 1 — and with the matching grant from the Midland Park–based foundation, the capital campaign for The Great Falls Center is now fully funded for Phase 2. Phase 3 fundraising is set to begin in the fall.
“We are so pleased and gratified to receive this generous challenge grant. It was truly a key catalyst in encouraging other generous financial partners to make gifts to the project.”
— John Oostdyk, Executive Director, Servant’s Heart Ministry
“The Bolger Foundation is proud to challenge Servant’s Heart Ministry in their journey to transform the building and the area around The Great Falls Center. Their mission and educational opportunities will be a catalyst for generations.”
— J.T. Bolger, President, The Bolger Foundation
Earlier in the year, the Paterson Planning Board unanimously approved the plans for the center, a collaborative initiative between Servant’s Heart Ministry and Dawn Treader Christian School. Plans for the building at 39 McBride Avenue include state-of-the-art workshops, classrooms, community spaces, and a public food hall with rooftop dining — bridging education and practical skills to promote community engagement and economic growth in Paterson.
The building already houses Servant’s Heart Ministry’s Workmanship Training and Mentorship Program, which has graduated 182 students since 2019. Current courses include construction project management, fine woodworking, welding, and tile, with an auto-mechanics pilot launching in the fall. Completion of The Great Falls Center will also allow the ministry to add culinary courses.
This recap is based on an article published by Tri-State Voice, July 19, 2024.
Get involved: To volunteer, donate, or help build The Great Falls Center, contact Servant’s Heart Ministry or make a donation.
