Catholic Charities launches new Warming House holiday event Dec. 10-11 at Mall of America

Free outdoor holiday event will feature winter crafts, holiday displays, petting zoo and
pop-up volunteer opportunities to support families in need.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (Dec. 6, 2021) — Catholic Charities of St. Paul and Minneapolis today announced the launch of the Warming House, a new free, family-friendly holiday tradition designed for the whole community. The two-day event — including nearly 200 beautifully-lit Christmas trees, performances by local choirs, s’mores, train rides, a petting zoo and pop-up volunteer opportunities — will transform the Mall of America’s North Parking Lot from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, Dec.10 and Saturday, Dec. 11.

Presented by Luther Automotive, the outdoor event (which includes a warm tent) supports Catholic Charities’ efforts to provide housing, emergency shelter and direct services to more than 23,000 men, women, children and families every year. At the event, attendees can assemble “sock and rolls,” an annual holiday gift for Catholic Charities clients—which includes socks, handwarmers, lip balm, lotion and Kleenex—demonstrating how easy it is to support neighbors in need. Additionally, the public is encouraged to drop off donations for the Giving Tree, a 30-year Catholic Charities tradition at the Mall of America.

“We’re pleased to host our first Warming House —a new tradition that will welcome everyone to celebrate the holiday season and our shared impact on community,” said Hayley Mueller, Vice President of Development at Catholic Charities. “We invite you to join us to learn more about Catholic Charities and participate in pop-up volunteer activities to provide essentials to families in need. We hope you will make the Warming House a new family tradition!”

The Warming House replaces the organization’s annual St. Nicholas Dinner gala and represents a meaningful shift towards more free and accessible opportunities for the entire community to connect with Catholic Charities’ mission while giving to those in need.

“Every day, our teams work tirelessly to support our most vulnerable neighbors across the Twin Cities, building a community where everyone has the chance to thrive,” said Michael Goar, President and CEO of Catholic Charities. “We could not do this work without the generosity of our community. We look forward to seeing you at the Warming House.”

An optional “All-Access Package” can be purchased for $50. It includes two two-piece s’more kits from North Mallow, two free admissions to the Crayola Experience at the Mall of America, a commemorative Warming House ornament and reserved parking access.

PRE-EVENT MEDIA PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

Event: Inaugural tree lighting

Dates: Dec. 9, 2021

Duration: 4:45 p.m.

Venue & Location: Mall of America North Parking Lot  (surface lot at the corner of 24th Ave. and Lindau Ln.) Bloomington, Minn. 55425

EVENT DETAILS

Event: Warming House

Dates: Dec. 10-11, 2021

Duration: 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Venue & Location: Mall of America North Parking Lot  (surface lot at the corner of 24th Ave. and Lindau Ln.) Bloomington, Minn. 55425

Prices: General admission: Free
All-access package: $50

NOTE: Your health and safety are a priority. Catholic Charities is closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19, and we are requiring that guests wear face coverings inside the Warming House tent. Thank you for your understanding.

ABOUT CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF ST. PAUL AND MINNEAPOLIS
Catholic Charities of St. Paul and Minneapolis serves those most in need. After more than 150 years of service, Catholic Charities is a critical part of the social and civic infrastructure upon which the community relies to solve poverty, create opportunity and advocate for justice. Its programs for children, families and adults annually assist nearly 23,000 people, regardless of faith, background or circumstance. Through its advocacy efforts, Catholic Charities serves as a tireless voice for those who often go unheard. Our work would not be possible without our dedicated volunteers, advocates and donors.

Warming House Architectural Rendering

Click to download full size image.

Official Logos