St. Francis Center is a nonprofit religious corporation organized under the Internal Revenue Service Code 501 (c) (3).  The sole purpose of the corporation is the performance of charitable acts and services to the poor. 

The Center is a multi-service community center in the South Park and Garment District neighborhoods in the shadow of the new pride of downtown Los Angeles, the “Entertainment District.” 

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Father Hugh Noonan, OFM, became aware of the over-whelming numbers of homeless individuals and near homeless families living in downtown Los Angeles and founded the Center. Almost 40 years later, the demand of services is just as overwhelming; the Center continues to face a growing number of homeless individuals and near homeless families living in this community.  Over the years, some have been able to leave the area for a better life, but their places are soon filled by newcomers in need of help.  

The small soup kitchen and food and clothing pantry had great success under the leadership of Father Hugh and his team of Secular Franciscan volunteers and has evolved into what is known today as St. Francis Center through the guidance of subsequent directors. Services include:

• A soup kitchen, partially funded by and bearing FEMA's stamp of excellence, serving two nutritious meals four days a week by the Center's staff and on the fifth day by caring volunteers;

• Case management addressing the needs of homeless individuals and near homeless families;

• Grocery bags for families and senior citizens;

• Educational programs for low-income youth;

• Hosted medical clinics available to homeless individuals and families;

• Medical access for families through partnerships;

• Community forums addressing family and community issues;

• Volunteer opportunities and education resulting in more than 9,000 volunteer hours donated in 2010.