Ministry to the Homeless

Feeding the Hungry

Sandwich Ministry: For over 20 years, 365 days a year, our team of volunteer staffs the Sandwich Ministry where we serve sandwiches, water, and fresh baked goods at the Center. Fifty teams of volunteers are involved in the daily preparation of the sandwiches and baked goods.

Hot Meals: Hot meals are served Tuesdays outside of the Franciscan Center throughout the year. Meals are prepared and served by volunteers.

Warming Center Meals: During the winter months, many of our homeless brothers and sisters seek shelter at downtown warming centers. We have a team that prepares delicious hot meals on Wednesday and Sunday nights.

Health and Wellness Support

The Wellness Center on Church Street, a partnership between the Franciscan Center for Urban Ministry and Saint Joseph College (West Hartford), serves the poor and underserved people of Hartford by offering basic medical services for people who are without health care benefits.

In collaboration with the Sandwich Ministry and Outreach Program, student nurses volunteer under the direction of faculty of Saint Joseph College, and there are many volunteer opportunities for the parishioners and friends of the Church and Center.

Housing

We collaborate with Open Hearth’s mission to help men experiencing homelessness enhance their capacity for self-help, self-respect, and dignity, and to achieve their full potential as responsible citizens of Greater Hartford and Connecticut.

To do this, we provide long term transitional housing at the church’s existing housing facility, Catherine’s Place.