About Us

 Since 1987, the St. John of the Cross Catholic Worker Community of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Inc. has provided emergency shelter, hope, and support to women and families experiencing homelessness.

What began as a small group of compassionate citizens responding to a growing community need has grown into a shelter serving women and children from Cedar Rapids. Operating from two neighboring homes on 5th Avenue SE, we offer more than a safe place to sleep—we provide the support and resources needed to help people rebuild their lives.

Many of the families and individuals we serve remain with us for several months due to the shortage of affordable housing. During their stay, our dedicated staff works alongside each guest to develop goals, secure employment, strengthen financial skills, search for housing, and connect with community resources that promote long-term stability.

Every person who comes through our doors is treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. We believe homelessness is a circumstance—not an identity—and that with encouragement, opportunity, and community support, every person has the ability to build a brighter future.

Today, the St. John of the Cross Catholic Worker Community continues its mission of providing emergency shelter while empowering our guests to move from crisis to independence, one step at a time.

The St John of the Cross Catholic Worker Community of Cedar Rapids Iowa, Inc. has operated an emergency homeless shelter since the late 1980’s, when an older home on 5th Ave S.E. was purchased by a concerned group of citizens who saw the need to shelter the homeless. It was incorporated in 1987 and obtained 501(c)3 status in August of 1994. The house is located at 1027 5th Ave. SE and was built almost 100 years ago. A second location next door at 1031 5th Ave. SE was acquired in 2016. In 2025, we served 124 guests, mostly women and children. Due to the shortage of affordable housing in Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities, many guests must stay for several months before they can find housing solutions. 

People in need of food. People in need of shelter. People in need of a better tomorrow.

Our mission is simple, but our commitment runs deep. We believe that every person deserves access to life's most basic needs and the opportunity to build a brighter future.

For those facing hunger, we provide nourishment and hope. For those experiencing homelessness, we offer a safe place to stay, compassionate support, and a community that cares. Beyond meeting immediate needs, we work alongside each guest to help them achieve long-term stability through housing assistance, employment support, life skills education, financial literacy, and personalized case management.

A better tomorrow means more than finding permanent housing—it means restoring dignity, rebuilding confidence, strengthening families, and creating opportunities for lasting independence.

Every meal served, every bed provided, every conversation shared, and every goal accomplished is another step toward fulfilling our mission: People in need of food. People in need of shelter. People in need of a better tomorrow.