Dear Parishioners,
This October, in celebration of the Feast of St. Francis, we, the Friars, invite you to join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in our extended community who need it most.
St. Francis once said, “For it is in giving that we receive.” That spirit of generosity is alive and well here at St. Patrick-St. Anthony Church. It shines through in the way you share your time, energy, friendship, and compassion — often extending a helping hand to complete strangers.
For over 30 years, St. Patrick-St. Anthony Parish and the House of Bread have walked together in service, ever since the Friars first arrived in Hartford. Today, those in need continue to come not only to the House of Bread but also to the doors of the Franciscan Center for Urban Ministry. Their needs — food, clothing, shelter — remain the same, and so does our shared mission: to offer them dignity, hope, and love.
Thanks to your continued support throughout the year, we are able to help meet these basic needs. The serving window at the Franciscan Center is open 365 days a year, offering sandwiches made and served by our dedicated team of volunteer parishioners. But clothing, unlike food, isn’t collected year-round — which is why we’ve begun a new tradition.
With the generous support of our parish community in the past four years, we have unceremoniously established an annual Men’s Sock and Undergarment Collection — a simple yet impactful way to honor the spirit of giving that defines this season and the legacy of St. Francis.
This year, as part of our Feast of St. Francis celebration, we will be holding a Donation Drive on October 3–4, 2026 for Men’s Socks and Undergarments, benefitting both the House of Bread and the Franciscan Center. As Fr. Mike often reminds us, our ministries reflect the care and protection we are called to embody. By donating something as basic as socks or undergarments, you are performing a small act of kindness with a lasting impact — one that honors the Friars’ enduring commitment to support the homeless in Hartford.
How can you help?
You can help by supporting the Men’s Socks & Undergarment Drive being held after all Masses on Saturday, October 4 and Sunday, October 5. You are invited to donate by simply picking from the three items listed.
Socks – all sizes
Men’s t-shirts: Large and X-Large – new and slightly used
Men’s boxers: Large and X-Large
Volunteers will be in the Franciscan Center and curbside to collect clothing donations before and after all Masses. It is our hope the Spirit of Giving to help those in need continues to be strong within our parish community and together we can support the Hartford community.
Want to donate but don’t have time to shop? We will also be collecting cash or checks for the Clothing Drive (checks made payable to the Franciscan Center).
Thank you so much for your generosity and willingness to help those in need. ~ The Friars