Frequently Asked Questions

What is the St. Paul's Neighborhood Center?

St. Paul’s Neighborhood Center is a community hub located in Erie’s Little Italy neighborhood. It provides food access, job training, life skills programming, and gathering space to support individuals and families — particularly those connected to the Triangle of Hope housing initiatives.

Planned services include:

  • Second Harvest Food Bank Marketplace

  • Expanded meal programs

  • Culinary job training

  • Life skills and job readiness training

  • Social services hub space

  • Community gathering and event space

St. Paul’s Neighborhood Center is designed to serve residents of partner housing programs as well as members of the broader Little Italy community.

No. St. Paul’s Neighborhood Center does not offer residential units. Housing is provided through Washington Square Apartments and Mercy Center West. St. Paul’s Neighborhood Center provides supportive services and community space that strengthen those housing efforts.

The Triangle of Hope is a coordinated effort among BUILD CDC, Mercy Center for Women, and the Mazzini Charitable Foundation to implement a Housing First model in Erie. The three projects work together to reduce chronic homelessness through housing plus supportive services.

Housing First prioritizes providing safe, permanent housing combined with supportive services. Research shows it reduces homelessness and improves long-term stability. St. Paul’s Neighborhood Center supports this model by addressing food access, job training, and community connection — key components of sustained success.

The St. Paul’s Neighborhood Center is funded through public and private contributions and in collaboration with other community partners.

Donations to support St. Paul’s Neighborhood Center may be mailed to:

3602 French Street
Erie, PA 16504
EIN 82-4606630

Donate Today

 

You may also contact the Mazzini Charitable Foundation to learn about partnership and giving opportunities.