[1] When, in 1968, a $200 donation of stock shares coincided with the availability of a rowhouse that had previously been home to missionary priests, the sisters turned to the community for guidance; neighbors requested emergency food and clothing services.
In the early years, the center was staffed by the Franciscan Sisters, with the assistance of members of the Third Order of Saint Francis and lay volunteers.
Beginning with the baby boom generation, the number of young women entering religious orders has not been sufficient to replace retiring sisters.
Case managers help those who face eviction or are unable to pay for medical supplies, prescriptions, transportation or other basic needs and provide emergency funding.
Additional services include clothing giveaways and a Technology Resource Center that offers free Internet access, help with basic computer skills, financial literacy and resume building.