Outreach & Service
Dorothy Day Outreach Center
A Community Resource
SFU's Dorothy Day Outreach Center
The Dorothy Day Outreach Center at Saint Francis University is an expression of Franciscan values in action. Initiatives are geared toward children, the elderly, veterans, the poor, and people with special needs. With the assistance of agencies and volunteers, the DDOC has helped more than 1,500 families in need.
Requesting Services
We serve others with respect and dignity. We know that asking for assistance can be humbling, and we will not let anyone feel any less for needing help. Our doors and hearts are open.
Contact
Phone: 814-419-8695
Fax: 814-419-8696
Our Staff
Director: Br. Gabriel M Amato, T.O.R. (gamato@francis.edu)
Asistant Director: Ms. Mary C. Adams (madams@francis.edu)
Hours of Operation
Closed Mondays, Weekends, and holidays
Food Pantry
Please call 814-419-8679 and leave a message to schedule your pick-up time.
- Tuesday: 9:00 am -11:30 am (call Monday to schedule)
- Thursday: 1:00 pm-3:30 pm (call Wednesday to schedule)
Hours are subject to change without notice.
Clothing Pantry
Open Tuesday-Friday. Cost $1.00 per bag.
- 9:00 am-11:30 am
- 1:00 pm-3:30 pm
Hours are subject to change without notice.
Additional Services
- Financial Assistance Requests: by appointment only (814-419-8682)
- Furniture Needs: by appointment only (814-419-8679)
Address:
115 St. Mary's Street
P.O. Box 600
Loretto, PA 15940
Ways to Support the DDOC
The Dorothy Day Outreach Center is a non-profit organization that is able to help those in need because of the generosity of others. Here are the ways that you can give your time, treasure, or talents in support of our mission.
1. Send cash, check, or money order to:
Dorothy Day Outreach Center
104 Evergreen Drive
PO Box 600
Loretto PA 15940
2. Food donations are accepted and may be dropped off at the Dorothy Day Outreach Center during normal business hours or in our plastic food donation bin against the garage.
3. The Donation Shed is where gently used clothing, kitchenware, home décor, toys, etc. can be placed at any time of day.
4. Furniture donations are accepted by appointment and the furniture must be in a usable condition. Call (814) 472-2878.
5. Volunteers are welcome! We are looking for people willing to help sort donations, restock the food pantry shelves, staff fundraising events, and basically any other task that keeps the Center running. If you are interested in helping please fill out our Volunteer Form, and we will reach out to you.
Fundraisers & Events
- Cheer on Bro Shamus and support the Brother Shamus Charity Bike Ride.
- Shop at one of our bi-annual tag sales. (last Saturday in July and fall TBD.
Volunteers Needed!
Dorothy Day is always looking for volunteers to help with our programs. If you are interested in helping, please fill out our volunteer form below and we will reach out to you.
Thanksgiving Distribution
DDOC is always looking for volunteers to help with Thanksgiving Distribution.
- Helping with food pick-up.
- Helping carry food from DDOC trucks to food pantry.
- Packing bags with food, and placing in distribution room.
- Checking clients in.
- Carrying food to clients vehicles.
- Handing out Turkey's.
- Helping with any other client needs.
If you would like more information on helping out, complete the form below. Our staff will reach out ASAP
Newsletter Sign-up
The Center sends out seasonal newsletters to our supporters.
To be added to our mailing list please fill out the form below:
The Roots of the Dorothy Day Center at Saint Francis University
The Dorothy Day Outreach Center, created in 1981, is a volunteer-based agency on the Saint Francis University campus in Loretto that strives to live out Franciscan values. Following in the steps of our namesake Dorothy Day, the Dorothy Day Outreach Center believes that hospitality is the key to serving others. Our mission, as the social outreach division of Saint Francis University, is to educate the University students on issues of social concern and justice. Also, involve them in volunteer service through our various programs on the campus and in the local communities. The Dorothy Day Outreach Center serves the community and continues to welcome all who come to its door. Treating everyone with dignity and respect.
