Welcome
St. John Center is an emergency day shelter and social services center located in Louisville, KY. Its mission is to create an atmosphere that encourages homeless men to envision a life of hope, take shelter, and find rest by treating each person with dignity and respect, and supporting them in addressing the problems that lead them to homelessness. This mission is accomplished by implementing three complementary programs: the day shelter and social services center, a residential recovery program for those with drug and alcohol addictions, and a permanent supportive housing program for the chronically homeless. St. John Center is where homeless men seek help, find hope, and move forward.
Raising the Rent Party A Huge Success!
Raising the Rent Raised the Bar
A record breaking 420 people showed up to the 4th annual Raisin’ the Rent Party March 6th at the historic Gillespie. Many took a step back in history dressing and dancing to the 1929 swing theme. But they made history by raising over $73,000. “This was the most successful single event in the24-year history of St. John Center,” said Keith Steer, Program Associate of the center. “We owe a huge debt of gratitude to our sponsors, ticket buyers, committee chairs and members, volunteers who worked at the party, and those who donated and bid on auction items. The Raisin’ the Rent Party could not happen without their help. This was a team effort and all these people share in our success!”
The record breaking amount will support St. John’s Center mission and work. Sixty-two percent of the agencies total budget comes from community resources like this event. The joint was jumpin’ thanks to the music of The West Market Street Stompers. Others tried their hand at blackjack or hung out with friends. The lights were finally turned out in the wee hours of the morning. But the event ensures the lights of the St. John Center will stay on for the homeless men of Louisville for another year. “I think the night was a huge success,” said Raisin’ the Rent Chair Jenn Bauer. “People really enjoyed themselves. We are so pleased with the outcome and look forward to the future where we hope to build on this success.”
Please join Raisin’ the Rent Party chairs Jenn Bauer, Judy Silva, and Bob Silva in thanking event sponsors for their financial commitment to St. John Center:
Society of John
Friends at Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs
Ventas
BKD, LLP
University of Louisville and University of Louisville Healthcare
Zoeller Company
Commonwealth Bank & Trust
Deyta
Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates
LifeNet Health
Agnes & Patrick Noonan
Rudd Equipment Company
Terri Popson and Suffragist Carol
Cornette enjoy the party
Move in Day!
"I feel like I stepped onto a different planet," said Donnie Harmon who moved into his own apartment after being homeless for six years. Donnie joined five other men who jingled their keys with pride. St. John Center Case Manager Vickie Burks said, "It makes me feel good inside that these men are off the streets. What a great way for everyone to come together." The new residents received some "comforts of home" such as food, kitchen towels and blankets from volunteers.
Thomas Harper hasn't had a place of his own in three years. "It's so nice, I can't wait to kick back and enjoy," said Harper. He, like so many of the men served by the St John Center, spent countless nights on the streets or standing in line at area shelters hoping to get a warm bed for the night. All that is in the past. The men have a new way of looking at life. Safety, security, peace and quiet, pride and independence are words that have returned to describe their current life. In fact, Donnie said that his new place is FIT FOR A KING!