The Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development has approved the application for the Campus for Hope, a collaborative initiative by Southern Nevada's business and non-profit communities. This project aims to address the growing issue of homelessness in Southern Nevada through a partnership between private sectors and state and local governments.
Virginia Valentine, president and CEO of the Nevada Resort Association, expressed optimism about this development. "This is great forward progress towards bringing to life a comprehensive program for our community’s most vulnerable," she said. She acknowledged the efforts of Governor Lombardo, Speaker Yeager, and various stakeholders in reaching this milestone.
The Campus for Hope will be distinct from traditional shelters as it seeks to tackle the root causes of homelessness. Aaron Sheets, CEO of Hopelink Nevada, described it as "a beautiful modern site built on the principle that treating people with dignity creates improved outcomes."
The facility will be constructed on a 26-acre site at Charleston and Jones, replacing structures from the 1960s with new ones based on successful models like Haven for Hope in San Antonio. Jack Robb, chief innovation officer for the State of Nevada, emphasized careful planning in relocating existing services to nearby buildings.
Richard Whitley, director of Nevada’s Department of Health and Human Services, highlighted how this project would enhance access to essential resources while supporting state-provided children’s services. Fuilala Riley, president and CEO of HELP of Southern Nevada, welcomed the approval as an opportunity to expand capacity within social safety nets.
Further details about Campus for Hope's leadership structure and construction plans will be shared as they become available. Interested parties can sign up for updates at www.nevadahope.org.