***This a message for those intending to volunteer with the St. Francis Center (DTLA), it's lengthy but worth the read*** This is nothing but an advisory service for those considering to volunteer with DTLA St. Francis mission. I wish not to deter or negate the intentions of the entire organization based on the actions of a few. There are genuinely good people and purpose being performed within this organization. With that said, I was recently dismissed from being able to volunteer with this mission. You might be asking yourself, how does one possibly get fired from a volunteer position that they signed up for? In my instance, it had nothing to do with my work ethic, timeliness, or understanding of the tasks at hand. (We were distributing food and clothing to the locals in need, absolutely not a complex concept whatsoever.) However, during my short stint volunteering with St. Francis I realized quickly that the management was somewhat dismissive of new volunteers which was masked as being overworked and overburdened. In most cases, running such a huge operation which can effect an entire communities functionality would be understandable. Unfortunately, I was personally met with this attitude and energy regularly. Despite that being the case, that didn't stop my enthusiasm or willingness to work diligently in order to positively impact the lives of those in need. I chose St. Francis for a reason, regardless of the circumstances of the people they serve they do so with seemingly compassionate intent. Unfortunately for me, an ill-timed joke made an organization possibly question the morality of their normalized "business" practices. Just days into my experience, I made a comment about some of the employees picking out donated items for their own personal use. In this realm of work, I'm completely aware that this is a common (and unspoken) practice amongst a plethora of donation organizations. It's shitty and in bad taste but it happens. Personally, it's not a big deal to me, it doesn't effect my well-being or sleep at night. My comments (which were in pure joking spirit and I thought were harmless) must have been overheard because I was approached by the director of the volunteer department. I was told by this person that the employees at the mission were allowed first dibs at the clothing, apparel, and miscellaneous items donated to the organization, to which I replied simply "I don't care." Said leader responded, "It sounded like you did, it would be better you not say anything at all." Shameless, nasty, rude. I completed my responsibilities, helped clean the areas I was assigned to and continued about my day proud of my participation with St. Francis Center. Sadly, later that afternoon I received an email claiming that I was 'not a good fit' at the mission and that I would no longer be allowed to volunteer with the organization. Initially confused and somewhat disappointed, I went on to laugh and laugh about the ridiculous circumstances bestowed upon me. The dismissal of my services from St. Francis Center won't hinder me from helping this particular part of town or community. (Mind you, there are a multitude of other organizations in the same area that do similar work and are seemingly more inviting, it can all be considered subjectively.) Regardless of my personal experience St. Francis' mission is genuine. Just be aware that those in positions of power in regards to their volunteer department may have some tyrannical and not so pleasant traits that rear their ugly heads from time to time. Do the work for yourself if you choose to volunteer here, in the end, righteousness will always prevail. God bless. read more

I've been volunteering here for over a year and it's the best place I've ever volunteered. Ignore that negative review- you can tell by how long it is that that guy was the problem. Every volunteer I talk to loves being a part of this community they've built. This place helps the homeless and I can't recommend volunteering here enough. The staff is so great!!! read more

I have been volunteering with SFC for 3 years. To me it's like visiting family and helping them feed their community. The staff is friendly, non-judgmental, accommodating and treats everyone with respect. SFC has been around for 50+ years serving the most vulnerable population the service is much needed. If you are looking for a place to do community service, I highly recommend SFC, but don't take my word come see for yourself, you will not be disappointed. :) read more

great place they help with much of things needed as essential items I would rec you to them

Alvarez and his team do a fantastic job serving the homeless in LA throughout the week/end. They deserve 5 Stars!

What a wonderful way to give back. For years I've been wanting to serve food to the homeless in LA, but for the most part have only done behind the scenes stuff like packing meals, community revamping, and food sorting type volunteer work. This was my first time being hands on with the homeless. Many people ask "is it scary?" "Is it dangerous?". My answer is yes and no. If you utilize common sense and have some street smarts, you should be fine. Don't be showing up with a huge diamond ring and Chanel bag. Dress modestly, be aware of your surroundings, but they do have a security guard around at all times. Remember these are just human beings who happened to fall upon hard times and might need some extra help along the way, yes some have psych issues, but thats okay, just do your thing and they'll do theirs. I came on a Monday so it was slow. Saw about 90 people total. They provided brown lunch sacks filled with a simple sandwich, apple, donut or danish, and some juice/water. Normally Tues-Sat they provide sit down meals to about 200-300 people so they could really use some extra help. The homeless guests I met were all very polite and grateful....what made me really sad was that there looked to be a few who were very young :( Overall, it was a deeply humbling experience. On a side note, they have a case manager on site to help place people into shelters, SHOWERING FACILITIES with hygeine kits provided and clean clothes to change into (must sign up for a spot), & laundry services. On certain days they have doctors and nurses providing preventative care. HOW TO VOLUNTEER -Sign up on their website -Take a look at the needs and time slots PARKING Metered parking is right outside. It cost about a buck or two for the time I was there. Be aware of bird poop!....I got 5 poop bombs by the time I got out. read more

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Awesome place!! The staff is super friendly and cares about what they do! I did some volunteer work here and found that St. Francis gets together with super markets and restaurants and they take the stuff that the businesses would not consider new - fresh, so they are still good to eat. They have pallets of food that you sift through to assure the food you have is fresh and is okay to eat. So after sifting through the food, you set up tables and then they allow the less fortunate to come through and get fruits, vegetables, towels, pillows, etc... They have a great system and are well organized. It was an enjoyable experience and I truly believe that we should all give back to the community somehow, someway. This is a great place to do so if you get the chance! Also, I found out that you can support St Francis through Amazon!! They have a thing called Amazon Smile and what it does is that Amazon will give a percentage of your purchase to this organization!! You literally dont have to do ANYTHING beside your regular purchases and you're helping the less fortunate. Its awesome!! read more

I know what it's like to have nothing. Now that I am blessed I do what I can for others. Christian, Muslim, Jew or whatever, we all have a responsibility to help those that are less fortunate and contribute to the common good. Volunteering gives you an opportunity to change lives, including your own. If you'd like to support a cause but can't afford to donate money, you can donate your time instead. I recommend serving and greeting the homeless community with a warm, hearty breakfast at St. Francis Center in DTLA. St. Francis Center depends on the help of volunteers to make the program successful. The clients enjoy seeing new faces and meeting new friends. I urge you to stop by and create relationships at St. Francis Center. All opportunities are available to individuals and groups. They offer hospitality in a safe, secure, accepting place and environment. The entire staff is professional and friendly. I send a group of associates twice a week. Hope to see you there. read more

This morning I accompanied some friends down to the St. Francis Center to feed the homeless. I started out by passing out coffee, cream, and sugar. The people were so friendly and thankful. Once the breakfast service started, I worked on the food line, preparing chili topped with cheese. Overall, it was an amazing experience and will definitely do it again. Just a couple of hours out of your day can mean the world to somebody else! Give it a try! read more

I was surprised to see how well organized the program was. They have multiple activities each day and really meet the needs for the homeless. I had a great time volunteering here this morning and plan on going weekly. People at the program are very friendly as well. If you are interested in actively serving the immediate needs of our community, St. Francis Center provides you the ways. These are some of the events they do that interested me: distributing donated goods, serving breakfast/lunch, donating clothes, providing showers, free clinics &etc. read more

I volunteered at this location for their Wednesday morning food bank and I have to say, that as a volunteer, I was truly impressed by how organized they were in getting things up and running. It had to be the best volunteer experience I have ever had. The staff had smiles on their faces and the environment was very cheerful. I wish I lived closer, because I would volunteer regularly even though the food bank I participated in takes place in the morning and I am not a morning person lol. Wishing St Francis Center and the people they help well. read more

They do great things for the less fortunate. It's also great to see so many different people and organizations volunteer at the center. St. Francis Center is truly a blessing to the community it serves! read more

Had a great experience at St. Francis Center this morning serving breakfast to the homeless. They provide a welcoming space for volunteers and I loved getting the opportunity to directly serve to those in need. I'd definitely recommend SFC for volunteering with your friends and family. read more

An amazing place to volunteer and give back to our community. Everyone that works and volunteers there are full of smiles, kind hearts, and love. The people that come in to the center are beautiful people that are in need of human kindness. I have much love for this place. read more

This is such a wonderful community of volunteers who are coming together to serve others as they would like to be served. I will definitely go again with St. lawrence Marty to help prepare and serve the food. read more