For 45 years, St. Francis Friends of the Poor has stood alongside our most vulnerable neighbors, pioneering the model of permanent supportive housing in New York City. This May, we cordially invite you to join us in a milestone celebration: The Founders Awards. This festive evening cocktail reception will allow us to recognize the extraordinary leadership, visionary foresight, and boundless generosity that built our organization from a single, bold idea in 1980 into a thriving community of three permanent supportive housing residences today. The event will also mark a pivotal step forward for our organization, as we announce the development of a fourth residence in East Harlem. 


Honorees

The Franciscan Friars, O.F.M.



The Franciscan Friars shaped not only the founding of St. Francis Friends of the
Poor, but the very spirit of how we carry out our work today. Rooted in dignity,
compassion, and accompaniment, their legacy established a model of care that
continues to define and distinguish SFFP—serving as the foundation we proudly
honor as we look ahead.

Mark D. Lebow, Esq.
Founding SFFP Board Member & Chair

For more than four decades, Mark Lebow has guided St. Francis Friends of the Poor with unwavering leadership and deep commitment to those most in need. From helping formalize the organization to advancing its growth, his work has shaped both SFFP and the broader model of permanent supportive housing—bridging our founding values with the impact we continue to expand today.

Katie Devine
President, Devine & Co.

As we look toward the future, Katie Devine has played a pivotal role in strengthening and expanding the impact of our work. Through strategic leadership and tireless advocacy, she has helped stabilize our existing residences and advance the development of SFR IV—positioning SFFP for its next chapter of growth. 

 Questions? Contact kevin@wingo.nyc or lflores@stfrancisfriends.org for assistance purchasing tickets and sponsorships.