NEW YORK — The Franciscan Community Center, a ministry of Holy Name of Jesus Church on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, is holding its inaugural fundraising event on May 1.
“Strike a Chord in the Community,” slated to become an annual fundraiser for the FCC, marks 20 years of service to the people of the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Beginning at 7 p.m. at Lucky Strike Luxe Room, 660 W. 42nd St., the evening will include bowling, billiards, music, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
“Since its founding by the Franciscan friars in 1991,” said executive director Mildred Morency, “the FCC has existed to reach out to all as an instrument of God’s peace.”
Today, the center provides tutorial, theater and after-school recreational programs for children and young people, counseling services for individuals and families, socialization, wellness programs and meals for senior citizens. It also distributes food to more than 200 families and individuals through its food pantry and 93rd Street Sandwich Line.
Registration for the fundraiser, open to the public, can be found online. Proceeds from the $160 tickets will provide the FCC with the general operating funds needed to keep its current programming, as well as to expand its services to the community.
This week, two other HNP ministries are commemorating anniversaries. The first of several celebrations of the 40th anniversary of St. Francis Community Center on Long Beach Island, N.J., is being held on April 29.