Generous Building Donation Fuels Collaboration to Combat Hunger & Homelessness in Jamestown, NY

(David Conklin, past President of Jamestown Business College; Sharon Hamilton, President of UCAN City Mission Board or Directors; Cherie Rowland, Director, St. Susan Center, and several UCAN/St. Susan Center Board Members gather to celebrate the historic building donation aimed at expanding vital services to combat homelessness in Jamestown, NY. Image by Melissa Paterniti.)

JAMESTOWN, NY — In response to Jamestown, New York’s homelessness crisis, Jamestown Business College (JBC) has donated its historic building to the St. Susan Center and United Christian Advocacy Network (UCAN) City Mission. This landmark donation not only launches a capital campaign fundraiser, but also fosters a collaborative partnership aimed at significantly expanding vital services to combat hunger and homelessness in the region.

Past JBC President David Conklin shared the news on Thursday, stating that the decision aligns with the college’s commitment to supporting the community it has served since 1886.

Due to ongoing maintenance challenges at the Gateway Center, where St. Susan Center has operated since 2006, the Board of Directors began a years-long search for a new location. During this process, they identified Jamestown Business College as a potential site and initiated discussions with past President David Conklin about the possibility of purchasing the building.

“The decision to donate the building to these incredible organizations ensures that JBC’s impact on Jamestown will continue for generations,” said Conklin. “We are proud that the space where so many students have launched their careers will now be a place where the most vulnerable members of our community can find support, dignity, and hope.”

Earlier this year, JBC made the difficult decision to stop enrolling new students, which will eventually lead to the institution’s closure. While the college’s educational mission will conclude, its legacy of community support will live on through this substantial gift.

“This expansion is a direct response to the ongoing homelessness crisis in Jamestown, an issue St. Susan Center has been on the front line of for decades,” said St. Susan Center Director Cherie Rowland. “The new location and planned renovations will significantly enhance our ability to serve those in need, providing a more welcoming and efficient space to support our guests. We are deeply grateful for the Conklin family’s incredible gift.”

In an effort to expand services and help address the homelessness crisis in Jamestown, the St. Susan Center has launched a Capital Campaign to renovate JBC.

The renovation plans include transforming the first floor into a spacious, welcoming dining room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a new dock area. The lower level will house a pantry, dedicated programming spaces, and staff accommodations, allowing St. Susan’s to greatly enhance its ability to serve the community.

UCAN City Mission became involved in the project through St. Susan Center’s vision of collaboration to better tackle Jamestown’s homelessness crisis. Recognizing the shared mission of both organizations to support vulnerable populations, St. Susan Center initially invited UCAN to join them in purchasing the Jamestown Business College building. However, with the generous donation from David Conklin and JBC, this partnership took on new momentum.

“We are thrilled to be part of this collaboration,” said Sharon Hamilton, UCAN City Mission Board President. “This donation allows us to realize our vision of creating a safe haven for women with children in need, furthering our mission to serve those experiencing homelessness.”

The collaboration will allow UCAN to expand its services by establishing a dedicated women’s and children’s shelter, filling a critical gap in local resources. Together, these two organizations will fully utilize the building, providing comprehensive services for those facing homelessness and hunger in the community.

To support the St. Susan Center’s Capital Campaign, donations will be instrumental in transforming the newly acquired building into a more modernized facility that will enhance the organization’s ability to serve the community. Every contribution, no matter the size, will play a crucial role in addressing the pressing needs of those experiencing hunger and homelessness in Jamestown. To make a donation and help create a brighter future for our community, please visit stsusancenter.org/give.

About Jamestown Business College (JBC): Founded in 1886, Jamestown Business College has long been dedicated to preparing students for successful business careers through affordable, career-focused education. With a mission to develop professional skills and foster intellectual growth, JBC has offered degree and non-degree programs that meet the needs of both students and the local community. The college’s legacy is reflected in the success of its graduates and its strong ties to the business community, ensuring that students are well-equipped to thrive in today’s complex workplace and society.

About St. Susan Center: St. Susan Center has been a vital part of the Jamestown community for 40 years, providing meals and fellowship to those in need. With a mission rooted in compassion and service, the Center offers a welcoming space where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.

About UCAN City Mission:  UCAN City Mission provides shelter for men and resources for those experiencing homelessness, offering pathways to recovery, stability, and community reintegration. Through partnerships and donations, UCAN seeks to restore hope to individuals in crisis.