St. Francis House hosted its 14^th annual All The Way Home Gala at the Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston this past Wednesday, October 28. The All The Way Home Gala provided an opportunity for Boston’s leaders and distinguished citizens to come together to celebrate and learn about the innovative services being provided at St. Francis House, while also raising $750,000 to benefit the programs and services for those in need. The gala hosted more than 400 of Boston’s most influential business leaders, philanthropists and advocates who came out to support the homeless and the work of St. Francis House.

“At St. Francis House, we believe that homelessness is an experience, not an identity, and we strive to ensure that each person who walks through our doors is offered the support and services they need to succeed,” said Karen LaFrazia, Executive Director of St. Francis House. “We are honored to have so many wonderful supporters here with us as we celebrate the success of so many of our guests throughout the year. Their success is made possible by the generous donations and support of the community.”

The gala, co-chaired by Rich Meelia, Principal of Meelia Ventures and member of the St. Francis House Board of Directors, and Mike Sheehan, Chief Executive Officer of The Boston Globe, honored José (Joe) E. Almeida, former Chairman of the Board, President, and CEO of Covidien for his commitment to building strong communities and for his support of St. Francis House.

“Homelessness is a substantial problem impacting communities throughout the world and of course, there’s the enormous civic challenge that homelessness poses for Boston,” said Almeida. “Here in Boston, we are truly blessed that we have St. Francis House. For 31 years St. Francis House has provided a comprehensive array of services for those less fortunate in the most caring and respectful manner. From meals to housing, they offer a hand to help the homeless rebuild their lives. I look forward to continuing my efforts on behalf of St Francis House and its noble work. Our community, working together, can help ensure that everyone can reach their full potential.”

Located in the heart of downtown Boston, St. Francis House is the largest day shelter in Massachusetts, serving more than 600 poor and homeless men and women each day, 365 days a year. The staff, volunteers and Board of Directors work as a community to provide for the poor and homeless of Boston. To learn more about St. Francis House, click here.