669 Center Street
Williamsport PA 17701
(570) 322-6538
Fax - (570) 322-1968
 

Dr. J Morris Smith,
Shepherds of the Street

J. Morris Smith, Th.D. has been the COORDINATOR of the Shepherd of the Street Ministry since January 1, 2001. He has a Master of Arts degree in Theology from St. Mary's University and a Doctor of Theology in Pastoral Counseling from the National Christian University, both in San Antonio, TX. Dr. Smith is the formation director of DOULOS - Servants of the King, an ecumenical crisis and formation CENTER founded by him and his wife Barby.  They reside in Williamsport. Dr. Smith also serves as a Permanent Deacon at St. Joseph the Worker Parish, where he provides a ministry of counseling, PASTORAL care and teaching.
 

Mrs. Ruth Hague
Administrator

United Churches began this ministry on April 1, 1988 to provide spiritual and material help to those on the streets, confronting fear, hunger, homelessness, unemployability or other difficulties.
 

Through the Shepherd Ministry the churches of Lycoming County are able to
 

• assist people who need hope and peace in the midst of poverty and need.
• advocate with local agencies, law enforcement and correctional agencies.
   

There are opportunities for clergy to provide counseling as an associate shepherd. There are opportunities for laity to serve as a receptionist or as an office volunteer. There are opportunities for everyone to be a mentor or to provide transportation and special skills as needed. There are also opportunities for everyone to provide items for personal hygiene kits as follows.
 

Regular Kit
1 toothbrush
1 tube toothpaste
1 deodorant
1 comb
1 shampoo
1 large bar soap
3 band-aids
3 disposable razors
1 package of tissues
1 wash cloth
1 bath towel
1 hand lotion

Added to Men's Kit:
1 can shaving cream

Added to Women's kit:
1 package sanitary napkins

Children's Kit
1 child's toothbrush
1 tube toothpaste
1 comb
1 children's shampoo
1 box assorted band-aids
1 pack tissues
1 wash cloth
1 bath towel
1 special item, to make a child's day.

Infant Needs
diapers
baby shampoo
baby lotion
baby soap
baby powder

The ministry provides for:

• counseling
• utilities assistance
• bedding and hygiene
• transportation assistance
• medical, dental, visual and audio assistance
• referrals
• work preparedness
• documentation assistance
• funds and fees
• food assistance
• employment assistance
• mediation and advocacy