Demolition began Monday on the former DePaul Medical Center along Granby Street and Kingsley Lane in Norfolk.
The facility, Virginia's oldest Catholic hospital, has been vacant for some time.
In December 2023, the nonprofit known as 'Next Steps to Success' announced its intent to move into that space. The organization offers free after-school care and summer programs for teenagers.
Watch: Demo begins on former DePaul Hospital
DePaul Hospital demo begins
They try to address poverty by preparing the teens to become successful adults.
At its current nearby facility, the organization can only provide services for 100 kids. The new facility would allow them to help about 300 children.
Norfolk City Council approved rezoning the property earlier in 2024.
On Monday, a crew from News 3 spoke with people about the St. Vincent DePaul Hospital and their feelings towards this change in the community.
For 15 years Dee Hawkins says she worked inside the very building being torn down.
Watch: Next phase of Pembroke Mall demo begins
Next phase of demolition begins for Pembroke Mall
While there, she helped deliver several babies and care for sick patients. The hospital closed a few years ago, but she says seeing the demolition is devastating for her.
"I think it's a very sad day because it's a community hospital. When I say community I think for the people everyone who had babies here sick people coming to the hospital and to demolish it is a very sad day," explained Hawkins.
Hawkins thinks taking down this hospital is taking away something from the community.
Sentara Norfolk is approximately 11 minutes away by car according to Google Maps. Dee says some people from this community might not have the means to get around.
Watch: Military Circle Mall business owners react to demolition plans
Military Circle Mall business owners react to demolition plans
"I think it will impact people who are having a hard-time getting around on their own," said Hawkins.
Joe Kawaykla lives close to the vacant hospital. He told News 3 that getting rid of the hospital is making room for something new and needed.
" I think it's a good thing I think that they need to revamp and have something better," said Kawaykla. "VA is a growing and developing state and I feel like we need a lot more native culture and native development in this area," said Kawaykla.
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