Designing and Dining the Perfect Plate: Summer Gala to Raise Funds for Cafeteria Renovation

FALL RIVER, MA – Saint Vincent’s Services (SVS or Saint Vincent’s), a leading behavioral health provider for youth and families in Southeastern Massachusetts, will host its annual Summer Celebration Gala on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Shining Tides in Mattapoisett.

The scenic waterfront venue will provide a gorgeous backdrop for Saint Vincent’s Services’ biggest fundraiser of the year, which aims to raise crucial funds to renovate the on-site cafeteria used by youth receiving residential treatment on their campus in Fall River. The renovation to the space designed in the 1970’s, will create a more energy-efficient space and introduce an outdoor dining area to enhance the cafeteria’s atmosphere. Creating a more welcoming, relaxing environment aligns with Saint Vincent’s Services’ hopes to provide a warm, home-like setting for youth during their residential stays.

“We are actively working with an architect to ensure we engage in a thoughtful design process that will meet our needs for years to come. The goal is to transform the space into a bright, lively indoor/outdoor dining area that will improve the experience for youth and staff,” said Saint Vincent’s Services, Chief Executive Officer Kristen L. Dutra, MA, LMHC. “Funds raised will help open up the space, improve functionality, and create a more vibrant atmosphere,” Dutra emphasized the importance of the cafeteria renovation in providing a comfortable dining environment that supports the well-being of the Saint Vincent’s Services community. The annual Summer Gala provides critical funding for projects like this that empower local children and families to overcome challenges.

This year’s event will honor philanthropist Thomas M. Quinn, Bristol County District Attorney, with the 2025 Carlin Lynch Humanitarian Award recognizing his dedicated humanitarian efforts over many years. The garden party-themed gala will feature premium hosted bar service, appetizers, food stations by Bocca catering in Fairhaven, a silent auction, and music from Unique Sounds. The Saint Vincent’s Services Summer Gala promises an evening of fun while bringing the community together to support transformative programs for youth in need.

Sponsors of this year’s Summer Celebration to date include: BankFive, Bristol County Savings Bank, Diocese of Fall River, Diocese of Fall River Catholic Cemeteries, Eastern Bank, East Bay Pharmacy, Gay & Gay, P.C., Law Offices of Jane E. Sullivan, P.C., Plimoth Investment, Prima CARE , Thermo Capital Partners, and Zibra Corporation. Tickets are $175 per person, and sponsorships are available through June 2, 2025. Semi-formal attire is encouraged. To purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or donate an auction item, please contact Katie Rose Dawkins, Director of Donor Relations and Fundraising, at (508) 235-3228 or email kdawkins@stvservices.org.

If you want to learn more about Saint Vincent’s Services and our back-to-school efforts, contact Katie Rose Dawkins, Director of Donor Relations and Fundraising, at development@stvservices.org or 508-235-3228.