Our History

In 1986, faith-based organizations in Virginia Beach came together to try to help people around the oceanfront who were hungry. In the beginning, meals were served only on Saturdays but there was such a need that very quickly dinners were being served Monday through Saturday. On July 13, 1995, Judeo-Christian Outreach Center (JCOC) became the official name of the organization.

With funding from the private sector, state, and local government the property at 1053 Virginia Beach Blvd. was purchased and during the summer of 1990, the Frank Bragg Dining Hall was constructed.

Today, by partnering with over 100 volunteer groups, churches, synagogues, civic groups and individuals, we serve over 86,000 free meals annually to our residents as well as to any of our neighbors in need 365 days a year!  We could not do this without dedicated volunteers who give so generously of their time and efforts and we are very grateful for their support.  Life changing connections are made at these dinners. In addition to prepared meals, JCOC operates a food pantry and a Family Food Box Program that provides free groceries to people at risk of becoming homeless so they don’t have to make the decision to pay rent or buy food.

JCOC houses 55 residents each night at our emergency shelter located at the Housing Resource Center (HRC) on Witchduck Road in Virginia Beach. In addition, we operate a transitional housing program for 16 homeless veterans and a permanent supportive housing program for 8 chronically homeless individuals with disabilities at our West Lane facilities. We also have a Rapid Rehousing Program that places homeless men and women into permanent housing and provides on-going services for up to two years. 

JCOC operates the Day Support Program at the HRC where men and women can take a shower, do laundry and apply for shelter and housing programs. 

JCOC offers second chances to people in crisis.  Our mission is to empower homeless families, individuals and veterans to recover from crisis situations and return to being self-supporting, productive, and independent members of our community.  We provide housing location and financial assistance, educational resources and employment services so that clients have the best chance to obtain permanent housing and sustainable employment. Most importantly we serve as advocates and support system to help our clients transition out of crisis and into a new life.

JCOC would not be here without the support of the community and for that, we are very grateful.  We feel blessed to help people in need and we thank you for supporting our mission.