Dear Jane,
From all of us at St. Francis Neighborhood Center, we wish you a warm and joyful Thanksgiving holiday. This season always inspires reflection, and there is so much we are grateful for: our dedicated staff, our incredible volunteers, our students and their families, and the caring community that surrounds and uplifts this work every single day.
Most of all, we are grateful for you.
Your generosity—whether through time, resources, financial gifts, or just keeping up with what we are up to—is what keeps St. Francis standing strong. It’s what allows us to continue showing up for our West Baltimore community through government shutdowns, federal funding cuts, and the everyday challenges families face. For more than 60 years, we’ve remained a steady anchor in 21217, a place neighbors can count on in moments of need and in moments of celebration.
If you stop by the Center, you’ll see that impact in action: youth filling our classrooms to capacity, families accessing essential food and household items, and neighbors finding connection and support. Demand is higher than ever—our youth programs are filled with record-long waitlists, and our food distribution lines stretch farther each week. And still, it is our privilege to meet these needs with care, consistency, compassion, and grace.
As we move into the season of giving, we are reminded that this work is only possible because our community believes in it. Your support ensures we can continue to be the reliable, stabilizing presence our neighbors deserve. It strengthens us for whatever challenges lie ahead—and fuels the hope, joy, and opportunity that define St. Francis.
Thank you for being part of this community, for believing in our mission, and for standing strong with us. Because of you, we have been able to meet each moment with grace and gratitude.
Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and abundant Thanksgiving.
Warmly,
Team SFNC ๐