Nationwide — For more than 14 years, Dr. Cathilda Nilli, the Founder and CEO of Project Love Community Outreach, a Black-owned nonprofit organization based in South Bend, Indiana, has been a lifeline for underserved children, young people, and families facing financial hardship. However, following a devastating fire that severely damaged her outreach center, she is now calling on the community to help restore the very place that has helped so many others.
On July 6, 2026, a fire caused extensive damage to the building that housed Project Love Community Outreach, significantly disrupting its ability to serve those who depend on its programs. The tragedy has placed the nonprofit in one of the most challenging situations in its history. After spending more than a decade helping others through difficult times, the organization now finds itself in urgent need of assistance to rebuild its facility, restore its services, and continue its mission of bringing hope to vulnerable members of the community.
Since its establishment, Project Love Community Outreach has provided a wide range of charitable services, including free meals, clothing, furniture, household necessities, temporary housing assistance, and help with rent, utilities, and medical expenses. The organization has also partnered with local universities and healthcare professionals to conduct educational health seminars, offered free counseling and home visits, and organized support meetings for single parents with complimentary childcare. These initiatives have helped address both the immediate and long-term needs of struggling individuals and families throughout South Bend and surrounding communities.
The nonprofit’s dedication to serving others has not gone unnoticed. Its charitable work was recently recognized by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Indiana, which described Project Love Community Outreach as “a beacon of light” that has “made a profound impact on the lives of countless Hoosiers.” The office also expressed heartfelt gratitude for the organization’s unwavering commitment to serving and uplifting communities. This recognition reflects the meaningful role Project Love has played in helping individuals and families who might otherwise have nowhere to turn.
Despite the devastating setback, Dr. Nilli remains determined to rebuild and continue the work that has defined Project Love Community Outreach for more than 14 years. However, restoring the damaged facility and restarting its programs will require financial assistance from individuals, businesses, churches, community leaders, and other supporters who believe in its mission. Every contribution, regardless of size, can help bring the organization closer to reopening its doors and once again providing much-needed assistance to children, young people, and families.
Project Love Community Outreach is asking the public to come together and support its rebuilding efforts. Donations will help the nonprofit work toward restoring its outreach center, preserving its community programs, and continuing its longstanding commitment to helping those in need. For an organization that has spent years giving back, this is an opportunity for the community to return that generosity and help ensure its mission continues for generations to come.
To learn more about Project Love Community Outreach and how to support its rebuilding efforts, visit https://projectlovecentersb.lovable.app
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