LOUISVILLE, Ky, (Jan. 14, 2004) - Now more than half of the way into their fundraising campaign, the Ursuline Sisters of Louisville are one quarter of the way toward the goal of $500,000 that will enable renovations to the 86-year-old Ursuline Motherhouse on Lexington Rd.

"So far donors have pledged $126,000 toward the renovations," said Jennifer Hartlage, director of Development. "We've still got a long way to go in the campaign and we really need help.

"We're grateful to the benefactors who have made pledges thus far, but I'm certain there are more people who would like to help our retired sisters, and this is their opportunity."

"As the sisters age, their needs change," said Sister Jean Anne Zappa, president of the Ursuline Sisters of Louisville. "These renovations to the center and west wings will make the Motherhouse more accessible to them."

Needed improvements to the center and west wings of the Motherhouse include adding handrails in hallways, improving restroom and shower facilities, replacing an elevator, improving lighting, upgrading plumbing and painting. This part of the Motherhouse was last renovated after a fire 25 years ago.

The Motherhouse is home to an average of 50 Ursuline Sisters. Many of the sisters are retired, but still continue their volunteer ministry in the local church by serving in parishes, nursing homes, hospitals and schools.

Funds raised in the campaign will also be used to make renovations to building 13, a residential building on the Ursuline Campus, to make it a small community home for four sisters.

"Once these renovations are completed, we hope to be able to meet proper housing requirements for the majority of sisters in our community," said Sister Zappa.

For more information about providing financial support to the Ursuline Motherhouse renovation campaign, please call (502) 896-3938 or click here.

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