"In seeing God as Father and Christ as brother, St. Francis of Assisi realized that all of creation flows into sacred relationship with each other and the divine."

Following this example, Franciscan Northside Ministries seeks to embrace all as one in God and live as brother and sister to each other. The ministry's mission is to create a safe, accepting, and respectful environment to meet the physical, social, and spiritual needs of all those encountered.

Franciscan Northside Ministries was one of the first programs created by the Franciscan presence on the North side of Syracuse. Actually a collection of several community offerings, Franciscan Northside Ministries meets a plethora of community needs that are oftentimes overlooked. With nearly a hundred active volunteers, Franciscan Northside Ministries' impact on the community is vital. Below is a description of each program:

The Poverello Health Center offers free medical care to people without medical insurance, and is the only free clinic of its kind in the Central New York area. It is staffed by physicians, nurse practitioners, and nurses, as well as a chiropractor and optometrist by appointment.

Open Monday & Wednesday 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (hours may vary)

This social gathering is held every Tuesday morning, open to all people of the Norhtside. Free coffee and donuts are served, creating an opportunity to socialize with our neighbors.

Tuesday 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

A weekly lunchtime bible study group open to anyone who comes to the door. A simple meal of soup and bread is served, and a scripture study session follows, based on the readings for the following Sunday's liturgy.

Wednesday 12:45 PM - 2:30 PM

This program offers free legal assistance, advice, and referrals to those in need.

Open Thursday 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

This day of volunteer service provides the opportunity for school, parish, office, or professional organizations to witness the reality of life on the Northside and help in it's rebuildling. The day is run in collaboration with the participants, and in exchange for their fundraising efforts.

Available for groups of 20 or less.

A monthly program that encourages neighborhood families to join us for dinner. Using food that the families may get at their local food pantry, we teach the family to prepare a low-cost, delicious meal. Each participant grows as a culinary expert.

These morning gatherings allow the neighborhood to gather for a relaxing meal and conversation, offering an opportunity to build relationships as brother and sister to one another.

A simple meal and prayer service brings Northside hearts and voices together for festive sharing throughout the year.

A week long day camp for children under 12 focusing on peace, healthy relationships, and peaceful alternatives in a violent neighborhood. It is offered annually in February.

This fundraiser provides an evening of entertainment by local musical artists, where desserts, pastries, and other confections made by local specialty shops are sold to help raise money for Franciscan Northside Ministries.