SJSSC Where helping people is not an option, it’s a way of LIFE!

Our Squad

The staff at St. James Social Service Corporation are dedicated professionals and compassionate volunteers committed to uplifting the community. With a deep sense of service, they provide essential resources and support to individuals and families in need, working tirelessly to ensure dignity, care, and hope for all those they serve.

Vesta Godwin Clark

Executive Director/Chairman

She is responsible for the general administration of the organization, including fundraising and development of programs. She is also the point person for fiscal and board management.

Franklin Kyei

Grants Manager

He researches and develops grants to acquire funding for the organization’s programs and networks with donor entities to enhance donor partnerships.

Nicole Jeffress

Director of Food Programs

She serves as a support person for the feeding, diaper bank, and period product programs. Nicole manages all data entry and reporting and coordinates the volunteers.

Wendy R. Hurling

Senior Case Manager

She is responsible for providing case management services for those in need of housing and referrals for those in need of immediate shelter. Wendy also provides substance disorders referrals.

Michelle Bailey

Senior Case Manager

She is responsible for providing case management services for those living with HIV/AIDS. Michelle also provides assistance to those in need of housing assistance and utility assistance.

Brielle Stewart

Case Manager

She is responsible for the oversight and administration of the Low Income Housing Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Universal Service Fund (USF) utility assistance programs.

Program Support

Torrence Cale

Building Manager/Pantry Staff

He is responsible for the general administration of the organization, including fundraising and development of programs. She is also the point person for fiscal and board management.

William Frazier

Pantry Staff

He researches and develops grants to acquire funding for the organization’s programs and networks with donor entities to enhance donor partnerships.

Juan Ramos Perez

Pantry Staff/Driver

He serves as a support person for the feeding programs and manages all data entry and reporting. Nicole also serves as the Assistant to the Executive Director.

Michael Scanton

Soulfood Cafe Chef

Michael Scanton is the new chef at St. James Social Service Corporation, bringing expertise in creating nutritious, home-style meals to support the community’s hunger prevention programs.

Tressa Bethea

Soulfood Cafe Chef's Assistant

She is responsible for referring individuals with substance disorders and providing case management services for those in need of housing assistance.

Darlene Anderson

Star Volunteer

St. James Social Service Corporation (SJSSC) is an independent 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization located in the heart of the Central Ward of Newark, New Jersey. Founded in 1996 to serve the residents of Newark, since 2001, it has expanded its reach to serve those in Essex Counties and those throughout the State of New Jersey.