Introducing St. Anthony Foundation

Catholic Social Teachings remind us that, “The person is not only sacred but also social,” and that we have “a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable.”

As a community, all the ministries of the Province of St. Barbara share a mission and a desire for the common good. Yet, many of us aren’t familiar with our sister ministries. So, each month we will highlight one ministry in an effort to increase awareness, appreciation and collaboration.

For as in one body we have many members,
and the members do not all have the same function,
so we, though many, are one body in Christ,
and individually members one of another.

Romans 12:4-5

Introducing St. Anthony Foundation (SAF)

Seven decades ago, Franciscan Friar Fr. Alfred Boeddeker had a vision of uniting vulnerable populations in San Francisco’s Tenderloin neighborhood. His vision became a reality on October 4, 1950 as he opened the doors of St. Anthony’s Dining Room. The first day our Dining Room opened, Fr. Alfred expected to serve 150 meals to low-income and homeless Guests. He ended up serving 400. Today, in that same Franciscan spirit, SAF serves over 3000 hot, nutritious meal every day, provides healthcare to more than 4600 patients, provides digital justice through a computer lab, free clothing program and supports many through its addiction recovery program. SAF relies heavily on volunteers This touching video allows you to see SAF from their perspectives.