Mayor Jean Stothert, City Councilman Gary Gernandt, Archbishop George Lucas, and Earl Redrick from HUD will participate in a ceremonial groundbreaking in recognition of the need to provide a supportive environment and comprehensive services to those attempting to overcome the cycle of poverty, addiction and homelessness. Councilman Gernandt will also assume controls of the wrecking crane as demolition makes way for a new building designed by Alley Poyner Macchietto, built by Boyd Jones Construction and developed by J Development Co.
Stephen Center was established in 1984 by Sharon and Dick McNeil to provide food and shelter to the homeless and hungry in South Omaha. Since that time, Stephen Center has expanded to meet the needs of a changing homeless population. In 2005, the John L. Hoich Center for Recovery was built to house the HERO Program, a 64-bed state-licensed substance abuse treatment center providing drug, alcohol and mental health services.
Stephen Center has always been a dry shelter, providing a safe environment that is supportive of individuals who seek recovery services. All facilities are inclusive, providing services and referrals for individual and family needs without promoting a particular faith, religion or belief.
