Camillus House, located in Miami Florida, has been a cornerstone of support for Miami-Dade County’s vulnerable populations for over 60 years. Founded in 1960 by Brother Mathias Barrett, the organization began with a simple act of kindness: offering a meal to a hungry Cuban exile. This gesture ignited a mission that has since expanded into a comprehensive continuum of care for those experiencing homelessness and poverty.
Each year, Camillus House serves more than 33,000 individuals and families, addressing immediate needs and fostering long-term self-sufficiency. Their services encompass emergency, transitional, and permanent housing solutions, ensuring that over 1,700 individuals have a safe place to sleep each night. Beyond housing, they provide essential support such as counseling, job training, and healthcare services, empowering clients to rebuild their lives.
Specialized programs target distinct challenges within the community. For families, initiatives like Mother Seton Village and Verde Gardens offer stability through housing and supportive services, including life-skills workshops and parental counseling. The Camillus Youth Housing Initiative focuses on at-risk youth aged 18-24, providing not only shelter but also educational and vocational training to facilitate their transition into responsible adulthood. Additionally, Project Phoenix stands as South Florida’s sole residential treatment program for survivors of human trafficking, offering a safe haven and comprehensive recovery resources.
The organization’s impact is evident in its impressive service metrics: over 232,000 meals and showers provided annually, housing assistance to 2,475 families and individuals, and support to 12,629 individuals at risk of homelessness. These efforts are underpinned by core values of hospitality, respect, quality, spirituality, and responsibility, all rooted in the compassionate hospitality of St. John of God.
For those seeking assistance or wishing to support their mission, Camillus House’s administrative offices are open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. They offer various avenues for community involvement, including donations, volunteer opportunities, and participation in special events aimed at raising funds and awareness.
Camillus House remains a beacon of hope and transformation, dedicated to improving the quality of life for South Florida’s most vulnerable residents through compassionate care and comprehensive services.
