The Franciscan Center Never Gives Up

Buffalo, New York

The Franciscan Center in Buffalo, New York helps to shape the lives of young troubled men in the 16 to 21-year age range. With two locations in the city, it welcomes these men, allowing them to stay for up to 18 months.

The Franciscan Center helps shape the lives of young men

This time can be very difficult. Many of the center’s residents have lived on the streets where they were always threatened by drugs and violence. Adjusting to rigorous discipline as stipulated by Friar Joseph Bayne and the rest of the Franciscan Center staff is a lot to handle for many individuals who have not had a lot of structure in their lives.

One of the Franciscan Center homes in Buffallo, New York

But that is what the Franciscan Center is there for. Using a character-building program, the center’s staff works with its residents to give them an advantage in life. The program involves such concepts as being respectful to others and oneself, acknowledging one’s responsibility, constructively solving problems, and recovering from disappointments in life.

The second of the two Franciscan Center locations

One way to gauge the Franciscan Center’s successes over its 29 year history is to look at testimonials from former residents. One individual by the name of MB said, “Coming to the Center was the best thing for my life. I wouldn't be where I am today. I'm in college and have a good job thanks to everyone” DC said, “I never would have got the chance to go to college without your help.” Many other residents have provided similarly complimentary testimonials.

The Franciscan Center’s staff does not believe in lost causes. Every person – no matter – how troubled deserves our help. He is a human being loved by God; and if we focus just a little bit we will see the face of God inside of him.