Dear Friend of Franciscan Ministries,
While summer sunshine warms our city, our hearts are already turning toward Christmas—a season of hope, compassion, and giving.
At Franciscan Ministries, we know that for many in Detroit, the holidays are not filled with joy, but with hardship. Families living in poverty, individuals experiencing homelessness, and senior citizens on fixed incomes will turn to us for warmth, nourishment, and dignity. But to meet that need, we must begin preparing now.
That’s why we’re asking for your help this Christmas in July.
Your early gift makes a real difference—just like it did last year:
James’ Story: After years on the streets, James came to us last December with nothing but the clothes on his back. Thanks to your generosity, he received a warm coat, a hot meal, and a safe place to sleep. Today, James is in transitional housing and working toward full-time employment.
The Rivera Family: Maria, a single mother of three, was struggling to put food on the table. Because of donors like you, her family received a holiday food basket, toys for the kids, and a grocery gift card. “It was the first time in years we felt like we had a real Christmas,” she said.
Ms. Lillian’s Joy: At 82, Ms. Lillian lives alone on a fixed income. Last Christmas, she received a care package with warm slippers, a cozy blanket, and a handwritten card from a volunteer. “It reminded me that I’m not forgotten,” she told us.
What We Need Most to Prepare
For the Homeless:
· Heavy-duty winter coats (men’s and women’s, all sizes)
· Thermal socks, gloves, hats, and scarves
· Waterproof boots and insulated shoes
· Sleeping bags (cold-weather rated) and thermal blankets
· Hand and foot warmers
· Reusable water bottles and thermoses
· Flashlights with batteries
· Travel-size hygiene kits (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, razors)
· First-aid kits and over-the-counter medications (ibuprofen, bandages, etc.)
· Backpacks or duffel bags
· Bus passes or gas cards
For Low-Income Families:
· Holiday food baskets (stuffing, canned vegetables, cranberry sauce, boxed desserts, canned ham)
· Grocery store gift cards
· Diapers (all sizes), baby wipes, and formula
· New toys (ages 0–12): dolls, trucks, puzzles, books, art supplies
· Teen gifts: headphones, journals, sports balls,
· Winter clothing for children and adults
· Cleaning supplies (disinfectant, dish soap, laundry detergent)
· School supplies: backpacks, notebooks, pencils, crayons
· Kitchen essentials: pots, pans, utensils, small appliances (toasters, kettles)
For Senior Citizens:
· Cozy blankets, robes, and slippers
· Adult protection and incontinence supplies
· Nutritional drinks (Ensure, Boost)
· Toiletries: lotion, shampoo, toothpaste, lip balm
· Large-print books, crossword puzzles, and activity books
· Holiday cards and handwritten notes
· Warm socks and shawls
· Small radios or CD players with music CDs
· Prepaid phone cards or simple cell phones
· Gift cards for pharmacies or grocery stores
· Fans or small space heaters (as appropriate and safe)
Gift cards are very important to our work. We are most grateful for any help with them we might get. choose from gordon foods store, Kroger, Costco, Walmart, and Meijers Cards.
Your gift today ensures that when Christmas comes, we’re ready to serve with love, dignity, and compassion.
Please consider donating now.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Mike and Kathleen Carsten OFS
The Troubadours of St. Clare Secular Franciscan Fraternity
Our FMI Board of Directors
810-814-0047 | mikecars10@gmail.com