Our Mission
To assist Erie community members and empower them, through education and support, to achieve long-term success.
Senior citizens, students, veterans, families—everyone needs a helping hand at some point. At St. Martin Center, we’re here to help in times of crisis and to empower individuals and families to achieve lasting stability and success.
Emergency Food Pantry: providing nutritious food to individuals and families in need
Self-Sufficiency Programs: offering assistance with security deposits, rent, and mortgage assistance
Financial Literacy & Education: helping clients strengthen their financial foundations through FREE budgeting, counseling, and homebuyer education.
St. Martin Early Learning Center: A Keystone STAR 4 facility for children ages six weeks to 13 years, including kindergarten readiness and before- and after-school programs.
Our Vision
To see all Erie residents in need transforming their lives, moving from surviving to independently thriving.
We are proud to serve individuals and families throughout Erie County with programs that address immediate needs and support long-term self-sufficiency.
We invite you to explore our programs to learn what resources may be available to you or how you might support our work.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at 814-452-6113 or email info@stmartincenter.org.
Our History
Our Namesake: Saint Martin de Porres
St. Martin Center is named in honor of Saint Martin de Porres, born in Lima, Peru, on December 9, 1579. Known for his deep compassion and tireless service, he dedicated his life to helping the poor, caring for the sick, and providing food and shelter to those in need. He established orphanages and children’s hospitals and was never afraid to take on even the most humble tasks in service to others.
Often recognized as a forerunner of modern social work, Saint Martin de Porres is celebrated as the patron of charity and social justice.
At St. Martin Center, we strive each day to live out his legacy—serving every person who comes through our doors with compassion, respect, and care.
Statement on Racism
St. Martin Center, Inc., located in Erie, Pennsylvania, is named after Saint Martin de Porres—a lay brother from Peru in the 1600s, born to a Spanish father and a Black mother who had been enslaved. He is recognized as the patron saint of the poor and of racial harmony, and his life’s work continues to inspire our mission today.
Our mission has always reflected Saint Martin’s example: to serve anyone in need—regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity.
Compelled by the Gospel and inspired by Saint Martin de Porres, St. Martin Center, Inc. stands united against RACISM in all its forms.
