GREEN BAY, Wis. – St. John’s Ministries announced a refreshed mission statement on Thursday, emphasizing its faith‑driven goal to make homelessness a rare, brief and non‑recurring circumstance for adults in the greater Green Bay area. Executive Director Jesse Brunette said the change better reflects the organization’s current focus on low‑barrier shelter, essential resources and compassionate support.
New mission grounded in faith and community service
“Grounded by faith, we strengthen the greater Green Bay community by providing essential resources, low‑barrier shelter, and compassionate support to adults experiencing homelessness and housing instability,” the new statement reads. Brunette explained that the wording captures the reality of serving people who face “more challenging barriers that prevent them from receiving other services in our community.”
Why the update matters
The revision comes as the Institute for Community Alliances reports Brown County’s homeless population has risen from 444 in 2020 to 648 in 2025. While the numbers suggest a growing need, Brunette stressed that Green Bay is not out of control. “I think Green Bay has made tremendous progress and through St. John’s and other service providers and shelters we’ll continue to make progress,” he said.
Continuity of services, with room to grow
When asked whether the new statement signals operational changes, Brunette replied, “Just growing. Nothing specifically. We’re just looking at all the different ways that we can serve the population.” St. John’s Ministries remains a private, non‑government‑funded nonprofit that connects clients to a network of community resources, from food pantries to employment programs.
Community feedback and suggestions
Local resident and client Anthon Cowan, who is experiencing homelessness, urged the organization to expand its in‑house programming. “I think they need to develop their own programs or at least contract with clinicians and therapists so they can be more accountable to the people they’re saying they’re helping,” Cowan said. He added that funding constraints are a concern but emphasized the need for a public‑focused approach.
Looking ahead
Brunette noted that St. John’s is always considering ways to deepen its services, though no specific initiatives were announced at the time of the interview. The ministry’s reliance on faith‑based volunteers and donors continues to be a cornerstone of its operations, reinforcing the organization’s long‑standing commitment to Christian compassion in the public square.
Broader context
Homelessness remains a pressing issue across Wisconsin, with many faith‑based groups stepping in to fill gaps left by limited government funding. St. John’s Ministries exemplifies how local churches can translate biblical principles of hospitality and stewardship into tangible community impact.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
