Learn about the rich history that has made us who we are today.

In 1987, two Sisters of St. Francis sought to address the needs of homeless families. The Sisters established the shelter as a non-profit organization governed by a volunteer Advisory Board.

Guided by the Gospel and the spirit of Saints Francis and Claire of Assisi, their mission was to:

• Provide a safe, peaceful, temporary refuge for homeless families
• Create a community environment
• Foster dignity and independence

While the Sisters searched for a building, the Pastor of St. Mary’s Parish suggested using their convent. Once approved by the Church Council, the Sisters were welcome to use the building, rent-free, as a shelter for homeless families. The building was dedicated on October 25, 1987, and the first family arrived to stay on November 19, 1987. Since then, over 720 families have been guests at the shelter.

From the beginning, the Sisters enlisted the aid of neighboring parishes to assist them in feeding their guests, and soon, churches of all denominations joined to support the Shelter. In a similar manner, volunteers came to help the Sisters in their ministry.

In the years since 1987, the Shelter has provided more than 192,000 nights of shelter and 578,000 meals. In 2015, the shelter was divested from the Sisters of St. Francis, who remain active supporters, advisors, and members of the Board of Directors.

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“Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”

St. Francis of Assisi