SOCIAL JUSTICE

South Bronx Churches

SBC is a Faith-Based Ecumenical Community Organization, with an international support system, that focuses on Housing, Education, Health and Community Safety.  With some thirty congregations participating SBC has built over 1,000 houses that were purchased by lower income persons and renovated hundreds of housing.  It has also worked with the local Police Precincts in lowering Drug Sales and crime to help improve the lives of the residents of the South Bronx.  Father Bennett is the present Chair of the Board of SBC and was the clergy person who lead the Housing Initiative.

San Juan Bautista – English as a Second Language Classes (ESL)

ESL classes are held each week, one in the afternoon and one in the Evening to assist people who only speak Spanish learn English.  The classes are free and open to all with the intent of helping people be more fully involved in their communities and be better prepared to advance economically.  (Soon to start this Spring)

Community Youth Program

Each month the Young Family Ministry sponsors a trip to a fun location, often educational for the children in the community and the congregations.  The youth group assists in the supervision and operation of the trips.

St. Simeon’s Social Action Committee

A group of members who coordinate the Outreach Ministry and Social Action involvement of the church and the South Bronx Community on issues of Justice and need.

Prison Ministry

The prison ministry is a major effort on the part of our congregations working with religious leaders across the city in helping incarcerated persons.  They assist them in re-entry to our communities and being involved with issues that cause unnecessary incarcerations, such as the lack of Mental Health services that cause many to rotate in and out of jail who need support and services.