In January, we had the privilege to hear about the dedicated work of parishioners in St Francis of Assisi Parish in Stratford. Des Hoddy, Pastoral Assistant at St Francis’, gave a brief talk about the important work carried out by the parish’s volunteers. We have adapted the content of Des’ talk into the article below.

St Francis of Assisi Parish, Stratford is committed to offering hope to those experiencing homelessness in the local area. Guided by their faith and supported by local volunteers, the parish has become known as a place of welcome, dignity and compassion.

A passage in George Orwell’s Down and Out in Paris and London reads:

“At half-past eight Paddy took me to the Embankment, where a Clergyman was known to distribute meal tickets once a week. Under Charing Cross Bridge fifty men were waiting, mirrored in the shivering puddles.”

There are two things that stand out immediately when reading this. The first is that these words were written nearly a century ago, and the struggle of experiencing homelessness persists; the second is that it was a clergyman offering what help he could to those who had little. And whilst the scale of need can feel overwhelming, we must not turn away and we must continue to offer hope.

St Francis of Assisi in Stratford are committed to offering hope. Guided by their faith and supported by generous volunteers, they strive to be a place of welcome, dignity and compassion for those experiencing hardship.

Ongoing work in the parish:

1. Weekday Refreshments

Monday to Friday, 9.30am–11.30am
Each morning, volunteers serve tea, coffee and sandwiches from the Friary. For many visitors, this simple gesture offers more than food, but also human connection.

2. Winter Night Shelter

Early January to March, the parish hall opens its doors for use as a night shelter for up to 15 people, both men and women. An evening meal is provided, ensuring that those in need receive both food and shelter.

3. Hot Winter Meals with the OFS

During the winter months, the OFS (lay Franciscans) serve a hot meal from 12.00pm – 1.00pm from the Friary.

4. Yearly Advent Appeal

Each year, the parish embraces a themed appeal for Advent. The first year they decorated the back of the Church, turning it into a fireplace and asked parishioners to hang Christmas stockings, with toiletries and other necessities inside. The response to this appeal was tremendous, and subsequent years have seen similar success with such campaign themes as: ‘Heads, Shoulders, Hands and Toes’ and ‘A Baby Shower for Jesus,’ most recently the theme was Can You Dress a Snowman?

“No matter where you are on your life journey, you are welcome here.”

We wish to thank all volunteers who help at St Francis of Assisi for their steadfast commitment to people experiencing hardship in all its forms.