Stephen Center

Stephen Center’s programs build on the tradition started by Sharon and Dick McNeil in 1983, offering an environment where vulnerable men, women and children can succeed. Stephen Center is a substance free campus and those participating in programming are actively involved in a recovery process.

Stephen Center has served homeless and low-income individuals in Omaha since 1984. Established as a 501(c)(3) in December of 1983, the organization was founded by Sharon and Dick McNeil, who recognized a distinct need to assist those living in poverty in south Omaha. The name Stephen Center was chosen in honor of the Apostle Stephen, one of the first Deacons of the church and a man of faith who committed his time to giving food and charitable aid to the poor.

In partnership with the McNeil family, the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Omaha’s Holy Ghost Church purchased a 103 year old building on Q Street for $10,000. It was a grass roots community effort that transformed the existing building into a shelter for homeless men in early 1984. From those humble beginnings in a rundown former pool hall and bar, Stephen Center has grown to include a multi-facility campus designed to support vulnerable men, women and children as they seek to overcome homelessness, addiction and poverty.

Stephen Center partners with the community, families and individuals to overcome homelessness, addiction and poverty.

HERO Addiction Recovery

Stephen Center’s HERO Program provides substance abuse treatment for low-income and homeless individuals. Services are also provided for those who are dually diagnosed with both substance abuse and mental illness. Multiple levels of care include:

• Long term and Short term residential care
• Non-residential intensive outpatient treatment
• Non-residential outpatient treatment
• Substance abuse evaluations

Pettigrew Emergency Shelter

Pettigrew Emergency Shelter is a substance-free facility featuring a men’s dorm, women’s dorm and family shelter units. Meals are available to residents three times per day, seven days per week. Within 72 hours of arrival, every shelter client is required to meet with a case manager to develop a plan for success to overcome barriers and emerge from homelessness.

Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) Apartments

PSH apartments provide housing and supportive services to individuals and families moving from homelessness to independent, supportive living. Apartments comply with HUD Housing Quality Standards. There are 61 PSH units for rent to those who meet income and disability standards, including 40 single room occupancy units, 15 one-bedroom, 4 two-bedroom, and 2 three-bedroom units.

Life Skills Education

Life Skills classes are offered daily to HERO, PSH and shelter clients, including opportunities to learn more about areas such as anger management, relationships, finances, parenting, leadership, spirituality and job seeking. In addition, there are daily or weekly meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Anon, Drug Addicts Anonymous and Nicotine Anonymous.