About Us
St. John of God Community Services is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with special needs and creating a hospitable, welcoming environment where all people are treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. We have proudly served individuals and families for over 60 years, since 1965.
Our New Jersey location offers multi-dimensional services that support individuals and families at every stage of life. Our programs include Adult Job Training and Day Services, Adult Therapeutic Recreation, Clinic Services, Holy Grounds Coffee Ltd., and so much more! In addition, we extend our care beyond our campus through our Food Pantry and Mobile Food Pantry, for individuals and families throughout South Jersey, as well as Pastoral Care Services that offer comfort, presence, and support to people of all faiths during times of need.
By building meaningful partnerships and meeting people where they are, St. John of God Community Services remains deeply committed to supporting each person’s goals and strengthening the community we are proud to serve!
Our Mission
Walking in the footsteps of our founder, Saint John of God, we provide compassionate hospitality to all.
Our Vision
In a world of suffering, we will be a sign of hope.
Our Values
Hospitality - Respect - Quality - Responsibility - Spirituality
Our Founder, St. John of God
In sixteenth-century Granada, Spain, wealth and prosperity existed alongside great human suffering. The poor, the sick, and the marginalized were often neglected, abandoned, and forgotten by society.
Juan Ciudad, who would later become known as St. John of God, experienced hardship and suffering firsthand. Following a profound spiritual conversion, he felt called to dedicate his life to those most in need. In 1539, he opened a house of hospitality that provided food, shelter, care, and dignity to the poor and sick. He believed that genuine compassion, loving relationships, and respect for every person's inherent dignity had the power to heal.
Each day, John walked the streets of Granada, inviting others to join him in serving those who suffered. He often proclaimed:
"Do good for yourselves, brothers and sisters, by doing good for others."
For twelve years, St. John of God devoted himself to seeking out the forgotten, the vulnerable, and the sick, offering them hope through Hospitality and compassionate care. He died on March 8, 1550, and was canonized in 1690. Today, he is recognized as the patron saint of hospitals, the sick, nurses, firefighters, and those engaged in healthcare ministry.
Although his ministry lasted only a short time, his vision transformed the way care was provided to those on the margins of society. His spirit of Hospitality inspired a worldwide movement that continues to this day. Following his example, the Brothers of St. John of God carry forward his mission in more than 55 countries, bringing hope, healing, and compassionate care to all, especially those who are poor, vulnerable, and suffering.
CLICK HERE to watch the Life and Legacy of St. John of God.