Franciscan Charities has been involved with the G.I.F.T. Program since 2012. Bob Conway—owner of Brownie Points bakery in Summit and Board Member of Summit Downtown, Inc., the organization that operates the Farmer’s Market—recently told us about the history of the program. What is the G.I.F.T. Program? The G.I.F.T. Program stands for Give it Fresh Today. [...]
Illyne Ganley, owner of the Beautylounge in Summit, has been a dedicated supporter of Franciscan Charities since 2008. Illyne became acquainted with the charity after meeting Gina Ricciardi, whom Illyne describes as “beautiful in every way and exceptionally inspiring.” At the time, Gina was the charity’s Board President (and currently continues to fundraise and volunteer) [...]
Franciscan Charities has been blessed over the years with the support of many local businesses. This week, we’d like to focus on Jerry Rose Floral and Event Design, a business that has continued to support our efforts to help the poor since the very beginning. Jerry Rose, the owner of Jerry Rose Floral and Event [...]
Hi, James! When did you first start coming to the soup kitchen? Six years ago How has Franciscan Charities been able to help you? Franciscan Charities helped me the moment I walked in the soup kitchen doors. Initially I walked in for a meal, however, I found more than just food. Shortly after arriving I [...]
The New Jersey Center of Divine Mercy 11th Bi-Lingual Divine Mercy Sunday Celebration St. Rocco's Church 212 Hunterdon Street, Newark, NJ 07103 Sunday, April 3rd 2016 at 10:30am Event Schedule: 9:00am CHURCH OPENS Confession Available Veneration of First Class Saint Faustina Relic & Divine Mercy Icon 10:30am DIVINE MERCY MASS Guest Celebrant: Most Rev. Bernard [...]
Our very own Chef Ronney Jacob is an example of a true success story. We recently sat down with Chef Ronney for a Q & A to learn about his journey from soup kitchen client to becoming a soup kitchen employee — and fulfilling his lifelong dream of working as a chef. Hi, Ronney. Congratulations [...]
The Community Food Bank of New Jersey recently brought representatives from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a visit to Franciscan Kitchens (also known as St. Ann's Soup Kitchen). They caught some wonderful images of our clients, staff, and volunteers. Check out this photo collage on Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/usdagov/sets/72157662371643994/
Our Annual Toy Drive is quickly approaching! Last year, over 800 children of all ages waited on line to select a brand new toy with the help of our volunteer elves. Many times, this is the only gift these children will receive for the holidays. This year promises to be another magical day, but we need [...]
Franciscan Charities is gearing up for our annual coat drive and we need your support to make it a success. Last year we distributed over 800 coats and winter accessories to children and adults. Your donation will help us keep our Newark neighbors warm this winter. Please CLICK HERE to make a donation. "Me and my [...]
The newest project from the partnership between Franciscan Enterprises and the Clean Water Fund includes a kiosk, fence, and gate at a community garden in Newark. Rainwater will be collected in basins to help the gardens thrive. Great job by Ed and the guys, pictured here with EJ, a local community member.