The Franciscan Sisters of the Poor have ministered to the physical and spiritual needs of the underserved poor in the United States for more than 150 years. Upon arrival from Aachen, Germany, the Sisters dedicated themselves to feeding the hungry, nursing the sick and comforting those in need. Over the years, ministries have evolved from a focus on health care and social service outreach to meeting the ever-changing needs of the poor. Today low income children and adults receive professional hair care to help them retain their dignity and self-respect. Outreach to the next generation encourages young people to grow spiritually and develop leadership skills by working with local service agencies. Even the renovation of an old building has become a ministry where people of all ages and backgrounds share spiritual and wellness programs.
Cincinnati, Ohio Tau House High school and college students from around the country have an opportunity to actively participate in community service, prayer, and community living in a simple lifestyle while volunteering to serve those in need.
Franciscan Haircuts from the Heart Homeless individuals, as well as financially limited children and families, enjoy professional hair care at a licensed beauty salon. A voucher program provides free haircut certificates to some 140 local schools and social service agencies. Since its inception, the voucher program has served over 30,000 people.
Tamar's Center For women struggling with a life of prostitution, Tamar's Place offers a safe neutral non-judgmental environment. Women receive emotional and spiritual nourishment away from the harassment, physical abuse, and violence of the streets. Should a woman wish to change her life, Tamar's Place volunteers provide referral services and resources to help her devise the best strategy for navigating the system and improving her quality of life.
Franciscan Community Garden The Community Garden, located on the grounds of St. Clare’s Convent in Cincinnati, provides gardening opportunities for the benefit of the local population. The mission is to build a cooperative community of growers whose efforts create a ripple effect to benefit themselves, their families, their neighbors, and the wider community. In addition to individual plots, there are communal plots, an educational garden, beehives, bluebird houses, and perennial vegetable and flower gardens. Community plots distribute produce to local social service agencies.
The Franciscan Peddler Thrift Shop The Franciscan Peddler was established by Associates of the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor who support the Sisters' charism of serving the poor, the elderly, the sick and the neglected in our community. The Franciscan Peddler strives to create an attractive, friendly, welcoming thrift shop where all are welcome, where guests can shop with dignity and pleasure regardless of income or budget. The shop is located at the St. Clare Center and is open every Friday and Saturday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.