In 2023, we launched an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for our guests navigating substance use disorders and mental health issues. Managed by our behavioral health clinicians, the dual-diagnosis treatment program is the first of its kind in a day shelter.
In 2022, the Moving Ahead Program celebrated its 200th graduating class.
In 2021, St. Francis House partnered with the City of Boston to open the new Willow at Woods facility in an effort to care for women from the encampment at Mass. & Cass.
In 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, St. Francis House remained open and adapted all of its programs and services to safely continue supporting people experiencing homelessness and poverty. In partnership with the City of Boston, our team leased the Charles River Inn to operate a 24-hour temporary winter shelter for 100 individuals.
In 2019, St. Francis House celebrated its 35th anniversary and opened the ‘Room to Grow’ Recovery Support Center to help people who are in all stages of recovery from substance use disorder learn to live and enjoy life on a new path. It is the only recovery center of its kind operating within a homeless shelter.
In 2010, the 100th class graduated from the Moving Ahead Program. We implemented the LEAD instrument, a collaboration between the Harvard Medical School Division on Addictions, the Cambridge Health Alliance, and St. Francis House to assess the effectiveness of all our programs to improve guest outcomes.
In 2008, St. Francis House was selected by the Bank of America’s Neighborhood Excellence Initiative as one of two Neighborhood Builder award recipients in Massachusetts. This prestigious award included $200,000 to support core services as well as leadership training.
In 2007, St. Francis House embarked on a $15.1 million capital campaign, Under One Roof, to build out our 5th floor and enroll an additional 100 students a year in MAP; add 14 new units of permanent housing on our 7th floor; sustain and enrich key core services; strengthen our infrastructure; repair the exterior of our 100 year-old building; and help secure our financial future.
In 2004, St. Francis House celebrated its 20th anniversary and concluded major building renovations. The kitchen and dining room were expanded, and a new Atrium provided space for 80 additional guests who once had to wait on the street for meals. We also dedicated the Carolyn Connors Women’s Center to serve the unique needs of our female guests.
In 2000, MAP was named a National Model Program by the Congressional Black Caucus.