The Guardian Angel Settlement Association is planning a new social services center at a former Schnucks and Hoods Discount Home Center on South Jefferson Avenue.

The $3.5 million project would turn the 18,000 square-foot building into caseworker and staff offices, a food pantry, two classrooms and a kitchen for cooking classes, according to an application for tax credits administered by a city agency.

The Guardian Angel Settlement Association applied to the St. Louis Development Corp. this month for $3.5 million in federal New Markets Tax Credits. The organization filed for a permit to begin construction this week.

The real estate, which includes parking lots, will also be a new location for the nonprofit's Angel Boutique Resale Shop, currently located with its social services offices nearby at 2700 Cherokee Street. The retail operation sells gently used furniture and clothing and also gives employment opportunities to its clients.

Guardian Angel Settlement Association is one of the oldest charitable organizations in St. Louis. It was founded in 1859 by the Daughters of Saint Vincent de Paul as an orphanage for girls. It also operates a childcare center on North Vandeveneter Avenue.

Daily updates on the latest news in the St. Louis business community. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.