In 2019, the Franciscan Missions accepted a grant request to support a homeless program in Argentina. A Convent in Buenos Aires,  San Francisco de Asis, requested support for a unique program called “El Buen Samaritano” (The Good Samaritan). The focus of the program to coordinate personalized attention for children, young people and adults who are homeless living on the streets near this Catholic parish. The plan was simple: offer a gift of hope to the homeless, by providing general support, accompaniment, food, and hygiene assistance within the Convent.

With generous support from our Poverello benefactors the El Buen Samaritano program has continued to serve more than 5,000 homeless people. Many people are suffering the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic over the last two years. The friars, social workers and lay volunteers work with the local government departments of the City of Buenos Aries. They listen to the needs of the poor and offer information and coordination concerning government subsidies, financial aid, training services, and incentives that help these people overcome the hurdles of homelessness.

El Buen Samaritano program continues to offer a gift of hope to the homeless. The poor people that come to the Convent find a weekly distribution of food, blankets, hygiene supplies and food bags. The program also offers a washing machine and dryers for cleaning the clothes and towels of the homeless. Today, this program continues to facilitate access to social assistance for children, young people and adults.

The effects of the COVID pandemic continues to create enormous consequences for poor worldwide. Homeless programs, similar to El Buen Samaritano, and financial support is basic to helping the poor to regain their dignity and a future of hope. With your generous support, thoughtful prayers, and faith in our worldwide mission, we can confidently say, “Together, we deliver hope.” Please offer a recurring donation that will provide support for future programs like this one.

Please Donate