Our Story

At The John 3:16 Center, we’re guided by our Christian faith to address the impact of poverty and trauma on families with children in Halifax, Northampton, and Warren counties of North Carolina. Through advocacy, education, empowerment, and community collaboration, we’re building a safer, stronger community where Christ’s love shines bright.

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Our Story: From Kitchen Cabinet to Community Cornerstone

In 1998, with nothing more than a computer in a kitchen corner and an unwavering faith, C.A.R.E. (Child Abuse Resource and Education) began its mission to address child abuse and neglect in Eastern North Carolina. The vision was simple but powerful: create a resource that could help families and children in communities lacking resources, education, and transportation.

Humble Beginnings

Starting with annual budgets of just $2,000-$4,000, C.A.R.E. began breaking down barriers surrounding topics that weren’t readily discussed in the late 1990s. Through grassroots efforts—from chicken plate sales to parade appearances—the organization slowly built its presence and impact in Halifax, Warren, and Northampton counties.

Growing to Serve

In 2004, a major milestone was reached with the opening of the John 3:16 Center in Littleton. Built at just 27 cents per square foot through the generous support of volunteers and community donations, the Center became a physical testament to the power of community collaboration and faith in action.

Impact Through the Years

From our earliest days to now, our reach has grown exponentially:

  • Connected with over 3,787 children through our Christmas Outreach
    Served 1,938 children through Camp J316
  • Distributed school supplies to more than 4,118 students
  • Assisted 4,642 households through our Emergency Food Pantry
  • Provided educational programs to hundreds of parents and community members

Our Mission Today

As a faith-based, interdenominational Christian organization, we remain committed to addressing the impact of poverty and trauma on families with children in our three-county service area. We do this through advocacy, education, empowerment, and community collaboration.

Looking Forward

Our vision remains clear: to build a safe community, free of poverty and trauma, where the Love of Christ is shared, families are supported, children are happy, they can dream, and they are encouraged to live out God’s purpose for their lives.

As we look to the future, we continue to embrace the quote: “God can move mountains, but you better bring your shovel.” Through collaborative efforts like our Roanoke Valley Afterschool Collaborative and various community partnerships, we’re working to create an even greater impact in the years to come.


“This has been a God-led and community-built organization from the beginning, and even as we grow, we’ve continued to keep this in mind.”

– Shannon McAllister, Executive Director

What We Do

The John 3:16 Center provides essential services and support to families in Halifax, Warren, and Northampton counties:

Youth Development

  • Wired for Success After-School Program offering tutoring and enrichment
  • Camp J316: Free summer day camp fostering growth and learning
  • School supply drives ensuring students start prepared

Family Support

  • Emergency food pantry assistance
  • Parenting education and resources
  • Christmas outreach serving hundreds of local children
  • Community Resource Center providing affordable essentials

Community Engagement

  • Basketball court, playground, and walking trail open daily
  • Learn, Snack & Shop educational events
  • Roanoke Valley Afterschool Collaborative
  • Partnership programs with local organizations

Our services are offered in a safe, faith-based environment, welcoming all while sharing Christ's love through action.

Our Story

Founded in 1998 as C.A.R.E. (Child Abuse Resource and Education), our organization began with a vision to protect and support vulnerable children in Eastern North Carolina. Operating initially from a kitchen corner with just a computer and annual budgets of $2,000-$4,000, C.A.R.E. focused on addressing child abuse and neglect in communities lacking resources and transportation.

In 2004, through remarkable community support and volunteer dedication, we established The John 3:16 Center in Littleton. Built at just 27 cents per square foot, our facility stands as a testament to the power of faith and community collaboration. Named after the biblical verse that speaks of God's love for humanity, the Center embodies this message through practical action and support.

Today, we remain committed to breaking cycles of poverty and trauma through education, advocacy, and empowerment. Our programs create lasting change by providing resources and support that lead to independence and stability.

Through faith in action and community collaboration, we're creating positive change that spans generations.

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We’ve Impacted Over 4,000 Lives in Our Local Communities

Since 1998, the John 3:16 Center has been a beacon of hope for families in Halifax, Warren, and Northampton counties. Through our diverse programs including afterschool care, summer camps, and emergency assistance, we’ve touched the lives of thousands. Our Christ-centered approach focuses on breaking the cycle of poverty and trauma, empowering families to build stable, nurturing homes where children can thrive. Your support makes this possible, allowing us to continue serving those in need and sharing God’s love in tangible ways.

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Get in Touch. Get Involved.

Your involvement can change lives.

Whether you're interested in volunteering, donating, or learning more, we're here to help.

Every action brings us closer to our vision of a community free from poverty and trauma.

Reach out today and be part of our transformative mission.

Main Office:
252-586-1800
407 East End Ave.
Littleton, NC 27850

Hours:
September to May:
Mon - Thurs: 10 AM - 6 PM
Fri: 9 AM - 5 PM
June to August:
Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 5 PM

Community Resource Center:
252-541-2420
47 US-158
Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870

Hours:
Mon, Wed, Fri: 10 AM - 4:30 PM
Tues & Thurs: By Appointment
Donations:
Mon - Fri 10 AM - 4 PM

Mailing Address:
PO Box 1541
Littleton, NC 27850

Outdoor Areas:
407 East End Ave,
Littleton, NC 27850

Playground, Basketball Court, and Walking Trail, and Story Walk are open daily from dawn to dusk.