Human-centered care that addresses the barriers to housing
Over the past 38 years, SJC has grown to offer three programs: Day Shelter and Social Services Center, Permanent Supportive Housing, and Street Outreach. Rooted in human dignity and a philosophy of Housing First—which places housing as the priority for each person we serve—these programs collaborate on a mission to help people experiencing homelessness address the barriers to housing and self-sufficiency so they can leave homelessness for good.
Day Shelter and Social Services Center
Every day of the year, people experiencing homelessness find relief from the elements and a safe, affirming space at St. John Center. Since 1986, we’ve provided fresh coffee, hot showers, a place for guests to receive personal mail and phone calls, and access to needed supplies such as socks, gloves, and hygiene products, and that’s just the first step.
St. John Center is a space where every person is encouraged to take the next step on the road home. Housing Counselors connect people to new opportunities, help them resolve persistent barriers to self-sufficiency, and accompany them as they move forward.
St. John Center serves as a hub for partner agencies like the Veterans Administration and Legal Aid Society, ensuring that those experiencing homelessness can connect with a variety of services in our community for over 30 years.
Most importantly, St. John Center welcomes each person just as they are and partners with them on the path home. Since the day we opened, volunteers call our guests who come here by name. You can learn more about becoming a volunteer at St. John Center here.
Street Outreach
St. John Center extends care and community to men, women, and children living on the streets in our city. Street Outreach Workers visit our neighbors experiencing homelessness in abandoned buildings, under overpasses, sleeping in tents, or tucked away in alleys. The Street Outreach Team connects them to overnight shelters, healthcare, recovery services, and other essential services that will lead to permanent housing. Support Street Outreach here.
Permanent Supportive Housing
Since 2006, St. John Center has accompanied individuals who formerly experienced chronic homelessness by providing long-term case management and support. With the help of regular in-home visits, mediation with landlords, assistance with job searches and disability benefits, and weekly life skills classes and community-building opportunities, those in the Permanent Supportive Housing Program can build a new life in their own home.
