MEND Luncheon to Highlight Expansion

A luncheon Monday at the Pacoima-based social service agency Meet Each Need with Dignity will mark not only the near completion of a $1-million expansion project but also the start of a new program to train clients.

The renovation, which began in March 1995, doubled the size of the building at 13460 Van Nuys Blvd. from 10,000 to 20,000 square feet. A three-story addition was built, and MEND now is only waiting for small improvements, such as new blinds, replacing some floor tile and changing the security system.

“We wanted to introduce the community at large to our center and to the services we provide,” said Marianne Haver Hill, executive director for MEND.

“Our client base is growing since we started using portions of our new building,” Hill said. The agency, which provides a wide range of services, such as job training, English-language instruction, a medical and dental clinic, as well as clothing and food, has seen its number of clients jump from 10,000 a month last year to 11,000 a month this year.

One venture to be unveiled at the event Monday is a catering training program. Five clients will serve at the luncheon as their first assignment in the job-training program, Hill said.

Space is limited for the luncheon, which is scheduled from noon to 2 p.m. Monday. For reservations, call (818) 897-2443.