Sisters of Saint Joseph Neighborhood Center

The Sisters of Saint Joseph Neighborhood Center, located in the Cramer Hill section of Camden, New Jersey, is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Philadelphia. Founded in 2017, the Center continues the Sisters’ long tradition of serving the dear neighbor with compassion, dignity, and love.

The ministry is staffed by Sisters of Saint Joseph—Sister Bonnie McMenamin, Sister Clarisa Vázquez, and Sister Mary Berryman—together with dedicated lay staff members Karla Estrada, Edgard Garcia, Sara Navarro, Juan Ortiz and  Ana Rodriguez. 

Over the past five years, the SSJ Neighborhood Center has fostered a deep sense of community and remains committed to welcoming all who seek assistance. Rooted in relationship-building, the Center offers a wide range of programs including a food pantry, a community garden, English classes, Spanish literacy classes, the M.A.M.I.S. program for mothers and infants, computer access, crocheting lessons, application assistance, a baby and adult clothes closet, a diaper bank, and eye screenings provided in partnership with the New Jersey Commission for the Blind & Visually Impaired. Each of these offerings creates opportunities for connection, enrichment, and empowerment. Serving primarily adults and families, the Center provides a safe and supportive space where Neighbors can learn, grow, and thrive together.

As a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Philadelphia, the Neighborhood Center relies on the generosity of volunteers and donors. Volunteers help teach classes, distribute goods, and accompany Neighbors in their daily needs. Donors extend the Center’s reach by providing diapers and baby clothing, new and gently used household items for the “Neighbor to Neighbor Sharing Markets,” and financial support for families seeking help with rent and utilities.

At the Neighborhood Center, everyone is a Neighbor, united by a shared love of God that draws us into deeper connection with all people and all creation. Together with their Neighbors, the Sisters are helping to build a space where all are welcomed, valued, and supported.

Modeled on the humble and often hidden service of Saint Joseph, the ministry at the Center is rooted in quiet acts of love. We strive to create a place where no one is turned away and where there is always “room at the inn.”