St. Francis - St. Joseph Catholic Worker House

History & Legacy of St. Francis - St. Joseph Catholic Worker House

Honoring the mission, values, and people who built a place of hope for men in need.
“Stained-glass artwork depicting the Catholic Worker Movement with themes of hospitality, peace, and service.”
A stained-glass depiction honoring the Catholic Worker Movement, symbolizing hospitality, peace, and service to those in need.

Our Beginning

The St. Francis – St. Joseph Catholic Worker House was founded with a simple but powerful purpose: to offer hospitality, dignity, and support to men facing homelessness, addiction, and reentry after incarceration.

Inspired by the principles of the Catholic Worker Movement, early volunteers and community members created a space where individuals could find stability, compassion, and a chance to rebuild. What began as an act of service has grown into a longstanding refuge for men seeking a second chance.
“Black and white illustration of Matthew 25:35 showing figures being welcomed, symbolizing hospitality and compassion.”
An illustration inspired by Matthew 25:35, “I was a stranger and you welcomed me,” reflecting the spirit of hospitality and compassion at the Catholic Worker House.

A Mission Shaped by Faith, Service, and Community

Our home has always been guided by the values at the heart of the Catholic Worker tradition:
 
  • Hospitality – Welcoming all with dignity and respect
  • Compassion – Meeting people where they are
  • Service – Putting faith into action through daily acts of care
  • Community – Living and working alongside those we serve
  • Hope – Believing every person has the capacity to grow and heal

These values have remained constant through every chapter of our history.
“Colorful artwork depicting the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy, including feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, and comforting the afflicted.”
A vibrant illustration of the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy, reflecting the Catholic Worker tradition of service, compassion, and hospitality to those in need.

Decades of Impact

For many years, the Catholic Worker House has provided:
 
  • Safe, sober housing for men in crisis
  • Stability during early recovery
  • Support for men reentering society after incarceration
  • A structured environment that encourages growth and responsibility
  • A community built on trust, accountability, and mutual respect

Thousands of lives have been touched by this mission.

Many former residents now live independently, maintain employment, reunite with family, and continue on the path of recovery — carrying the lessons learned here into the rest of their lives.
“Black and white illustration of Christ standing among the poor, symbolizing compassion, dignity, and Catholic Worker values.”
A powerful illustration of Christ standing among the poor, reflecting the Catholic Worker belief that we meet Christ in those who are suffering and in need.

Continuing the Mission in a Changing World

While the needs of our community have evolved over time, our purpose has remained the same.

Today, the St. Francis – St. Joseph Catholic Worker House continues to operate as a 16-bed transitional home offering:
 
  • Structure
  • Stability
  • Support
  • Accountability
  • Compassion

We remain committed to walking with each resident through one of the most important transitions of their life.
Neighborhood near the Catholic Worker House providing homelessness services and transitional support for men.
A view of the neighborhood surrounding the Catholic Worker House, where men experiencing homelessness find support, stability, and a path toward rebuilding their lives.

The Future of the Catholic Worker House

As we move forward, our focus remains on strengthening:
 
  • Resident support
  • Structure and accountability
  • Reentry and recovery guidance
  • Long-term independence
  • Community partnerships
  • Opportunities for sustainable growth

With continued support, we will ensure that the Catholic Worker House remains a place of hope, healing, and transformation for generations to come.

Honoring Those Who Served Before Us

Our legacy is built on the dedication of countless volunteers, staff, donors, board members, and community partners who have given their time and hearts to this mission.

Their belief in second chances has shaped the culture of our home and made it possible for men in crisis to rebuild their lives with dignity.

We honor their contributions by continuing the work with the same compassion and commitment.

Join Us in Changing Lives

Your support helps provide safe housing, stability, and a chance for men to make a fresh start.
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