Chaplains of Saint Francis

A Street Ministry of the Order of Franciscan Clareans

Compassion in Action – Welfare Checks for the Homeless

Who We Are

The Order of Franciscan Clareans (OFC) is a grassroots, interspiritual Christian community inspired by Saint Francis and Saint Clare of Assisi. We are dedicated to serving the poor, the unhoused, and those on the margins with dignity, compassion, and non-judgmental care.

Our Mission

We work to meet real needs in our communities: food, clothing, shelter, medical support, and spiritual care. Part of this mission includes conducting welfare checks for people experiencing homelessness—to ensure they are safe, have access to resources, and are treated with dignity.

What We Do During Welfare Checks

Visit encampments, shelters, and known gathering areas of unhoused individuals.

Provide basic supplies: food, water, clothing, hygiene kits.

Offer connections to housing, healthcare, and community resources.

Check for urgent medical or safety needs.

Provide chaplaincy and compassionate presence when requested.

Share information with local services (when appropriate) to ensure people are not forgotten.

How We Work With Law Enforcement

We are not vigilantes or an enforcement agency—we are a ministry of care.

We respect the role of law enforcement and want to collaborate in a spirit of partnership.

If we encounter situations beyond our scope (medical emergencies, threats to safety, criminal activity), we will notify the proper authorities immediately.

Our aim is to reduce strain on first responders by addressing non-emergency needs with compassion.

Why This Matters

The homeless crisis is not just a social issue—it’s a human issue. Many people fall through the cracks. Welfare checks allow us to bring dignity, presence, and hope to individuals who are often unseen. We believe this proactive, faith-driven approach helps build safer, healthier communities for all.

“Preach the gospel at all times. If necessary, use words.” – St. Francis