For Many of Our Guests, We Are Home

This month, Community Connect partners with Sister José Women's Center, focusing on providing dignity, safety, and belonging for women experiencing homelessness in our Tucson community.

At St. Francis, we believe every person deserves to be seen, valued, and welcomed. Sister José Women's Center shares that same conviction. Since 2009, the organization has worked to transform the lives of women who are unhoused by offering not only shelter, but a place where compassion, community, and hope come together. What began as a small winter overnight shelter in a church sanctuary has grown into a welcoming community serving women throughout the year.

For many older women, homelessness is a new and unexpected reality. Rising housing costs, inflation, and the challenges of living on a fixed income have left more women without stable housing than ever before. Between 2020 and 2025, the number of people experiencing homelessness in Pima County increased by 68%, reminding us that this growing need is closer to home than many realize.

Ways To Get Involved
Every Sunday throughout August, representatives from Sister José Women's Center will be available on the patio after the 9:00 AM service to answer questions, share information about their programs, and discuss ways to become involved.

Volunteers are essential to the work of the Women's Center, with opportunities to serve women through hospitality, day-use programs, overnight shelter, and many other meaningful roles. Whether you have time to volunteer regularly or simply want to learn more, there are many ways to make a difference.

How You Can Help
Throughout August, the Community Connect Committee will be collecting financial gifts and essential donations for the women served by Sister José Women's Center.
Items of greatest need include:
• Women's underwear
• Sports bras
• Small bottles of sunscreen
• Sun hats
• Feminine or travel-size hygiene products
• Pet food bowls and leashes
Lightly used items are also welcome:
• Backpacks
• Suitcases
• Tote bags
• Women's sandals
Every donation, large or small, helps provide comfort, dignity, and practical support to women rebuilding their lives.

Learn More
Founder Jean Fedigan established Sister José Women's Center with a simple but powerful belief: women helping women can transform lives. Today, the center provides overnight shelter as well as a day-use program offering showers, nutritious meals, laundry facilities, hygiene products, mail and phone services, and a safe place to rest and escape Tucson's summer heat. On an average day, the center welcomes approximately 80 women through its day program while providing overnight shelter for another 54.

If you'd like to become involved, volunteer, or learn more about the Women's Center, you can contact Rachael Milles at (520) 305-3418. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, the Sister José Women's Center can be reached at (520) 909-3905.