Camillus House is one step closer to their goal of ending chronic homelessness in Miami-Dade County after receiving a $5 million pledge today from Norwegian Cruise Line to support ongoing construction of its new three-acre Campus on Northwest 7th Avenue in Miami’s Health District. In recognition of this gift, which represents the largest corporate contribution to Camillus House’s capital campaign, the new home of the prominent not-for-profit organization was named the Norwegian Cruise Line Campus of Camillus House.

“We are profoundly honored and grateful to Norwegian Cruise Line for this generous gift to our campaign,” said Dr. Paul Ahr, Camillus House President and Chief Executive Officer. “Thanks to their support, we have taken a giant step toward achieving our goal of ending chronic homelessness in our community.”

During the naming ceremony held today at the construction site, Camillus House and Norwegian Cruise Line representatives unveiled renderings of Miami’s newest landmark — a 120-foot tower — displaying the Campus’ new name. Once erected in October 2011, the tower will be visible from Interstate 95 and the Dolphin Expressway. Community leaders and guests also had the opportunity to tour the $84 million construction site, getting a first glimpse of the nearly completed Shepherd’s Court permanent housing apartments.

“As a long standing member of the Miami community, Norwegian Cruise Line is proud to support Camillus House,” said Kevin Sheehan, Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Camillus House has long been a leader in this community and has helped thousands of people in need. We are proud to have our name associated with this shining example of their strong positive force in Miami, our hometown.”

The new eco-friendly Campus, which is expected to earn Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification, will feature seven buildings surrounding two open courtyards.

Once fully operational, the Norwegian Cruise Line Campus will provide services to more than 3,000 people in need each year integrated with a variety of employment, social service and clinical treatment programs, including an expansion of emergency housing and a residential treatment for women and Spanish-speaking individuals. In addition, the Campus will provide the following services: emergency, treatment and permanent housing beds; basic human services of food, clothing, showers and overnight shelter; primary health care; residential and outpatient treatment for mental illness and addiction; employment training and job placement. In addition, there will be a kennel for pets.

The first phase of the construction began in mid-2010, and it is expected to be completed in 2012. The construction has simulated the local economy with the creation of 200 construction jobs. In addition, 100 new full-time positions will be created once the Campus is completed.