| The Franciscan Center
is family friendly, offering a haven for youth and family who may need a
time of "cooling off" - youth who need some structure, guidance, and
mediation. parents who have tried other approaches are welcome to inquire or
set up an appointment to come in with their son. As a transitional program,
we are not merely a quick fix or overnight stop.
Youth should call and come in for an interview.
Those under 18 will need parent/guardian approval.
Positive Philosophy ...
The center itself
is a dual runaway homeless youth shelter, sponsored and administered by the
Conventual
Franciscan Friars of St. Anthony of Padua Province. Franciscan Friars
are assisted by dedicated men and women from
many diverse backgrounds and experiences. Our Franciscan Philosophy of
ministry is Information, Formation, and
Transformation. This is reflected in our "tough love" approach,
assisting young men in Body, Mind, and Spirit. Each youth is
cared for with dignity, no matter his race, creed, or color.
A former Buffalo Common Council member who was
instrumental in getting the Center started, writes:
"The Franciscan Center has had an immediate and lasting
positive impact. The presence of this facility in our community has given
new hope to all its clients. Their despair has been replaced with a sense
of dignity and belonging."
Positive Results
A supervisor from Erie County Probation writes:
"Some staff comments regarding the Franciscan Center
are: I've had nothing but positive experience ... they really act as a
crisis and respite placement without all the nonsense and red tape we have
to go through with other services."
What speaks for themselves are the testimonials that can
be found HERE. |
Mission Statement
The Franciscan Center, founded and continuing in
the Catholic and Franciscan traditions, provides transitional care for
young men in need.
Our home-like atmosphere fosters a holistic
approach toward personal growth and development.
On-going transformation through goal-setting leads
to a re-integration into family life and/or independent living.
Board of Directors
Mark E. Saltarelli, Esq,
Chair
Richard Robinson Sr., Vice Chair
Patricia A. Laszewski, R.N., Secretary
Jean M. Nihill, Finance Chair
James E. Byrne
Patricia E. Connolly
Steven M. Sommers
Nelson H. Cosgrove
Fr. Michael Sajda, OFM Conv
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Certified and funded by
the NYS OCFS. Also funded by Erie County, Catholic Charities, united Way
Donor Programs, Franciscan Friars, private donations, and "Friends of the
Franciscan Center" |
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