Embracing the New Year at St. Francis Friends of the Poor
We’ve had a busy start to the year at the St. Francis Residences. As we ring in 2025, we’re celebrating necessary changes and key milestones, including exciting renovations and State Assembly Member visits, emphasizing the importance of permanent supportive housing.
Read more about what we’ve been up to, including our renovation of Residence 1, part of a larger multi-residence renovation project, our visit from Assembly Member Tony Simone, and our recent resident and volunteer events!
Building a Brighter Future
Richard Sargenti
Director of Facilities
“The start of the year at Residence 1 began with extensive exterior renovations concluding and the scaffolding set to be deconstructed to showcase the building’s brand new façade.
It has been inspiring to see our tenants embrace the renovations with both resilience and positivity. We are all committed to practicing patience and cooperation, not just to make our buildings better but to build a community that thrives on progress.”
A Visit from State Assembly Member Tony Simone
From left to right: Sonya Katcher (Recreation Therapist), Assembly Member Tony Simone, Linda Flores (Development and Communications Manager), Christina Byrne (Executive Director).
We were honored to host Assembly Member Tony Simone for a visit late last year. He paid his first visit to Residence 1 on 24th Street, touring our vibrant art room, speaking to our dedicated program staff, and getting a sneak peek at the renovation progress.
We also engaged in meaningful conversation on the importance of Permanent Supportive Housing and the future of St. Francis Residences.
Laughing Through Life Together
AhHa!Broadway Comedy Workshop
On the west side of town, Residence 3 tenants got busy working on their comedy skills during a 10-week class hosted by AhHa!Broadway, a nonprofit creating opportunities for individuals to get creative and share their voices with others.
Our tenants put on a comedy show that filled every seat in the house! They put the fun in funny with jokes, roasts, and skits all about life at Residence 3.
We Depend on Friends Like You
The Team at the Office of Eric Schmidt Volunteering at Residence 2
The team at the office of Eric Schmidt visited Residence 2 to distribute everyday essentials to tenants, including disinfectant wipes, shower caddies, toothbrushes and laundry bags. The morning was filled with big smiles and many thank yous from our tenants for items they very much needed, wanted, and loved!
We are thankful for the support of our neighbors!
In Memoriam: Fr. John McVean
Fr. John McVean
December 19th, 2024 we said goodbye to our co-founder Fr. John McVean. A service was held on January 8th at the church of St. Francis of Assisi, where long time friends, parishioners and family gathered to celebrate his life.
We thank all who attended and offered their condolences.
Get Involved with St. Francis Friends of the Poor
Your support makes a tremendous impact on the lives of our 300 tenants. We appreciate any form of support you can provide.
Donate Today. Your support provides a permanent home and community to nearly 300 formerly homeless folks living with serious mental illness at our three residences in New York City.
Volunteer. Share your talents to enhance our social, artistic, educational, and recreational programming as we work together to build community and promote well-being.
Corporate Sponsorships. We provide opportunities to individuals and corporations wishing to make an impactful gift to a program or activity that resonates with their philanthropic or marketing goals.
Career Opportunities. Join our mission-driven team to transform the lives of our tenants.