Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for answers about donations, volunteering, client services, or our programs? Our FAQ page provides quick and helpful information about how to support St. Francis Center, receive assistance, and get involved in our mission.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to call us at or email us at stfrancis@stfrancisrwc.org. We’re here to help!
Q: When can I come to donate clothing?

A: Monday through Friday, 9 am to 1:30 pm. After 1:30 pm we do not have volunteers available to process donations.

Q: Do you have donation receipts?

A: Yes, please ask for a receipt when you drop off your donation. Fill out the bottom portion and leave it with us. Take the top portion for your records. Thank you!

Q: I have furniture, baby items (crib, bassinet, etc.), and household items. Can you take this donation?

A: We don’t have much storage for large items. Please email a photo of the items to stfrancis@stfrancisrwc.org. We will see if we can find a client that needs these items and get back to you. Thank you for thinking of us!

Q: I am here outside right now with a clothing donation. How do I get in? Who do I give it to?

A: Please pull into the driveway and I will open the gates for you. Please stay back 6 feet as the gate’s open outward. Once you pull in, you can give your bags to a volunteer. They can provide you with a donation receipt if you would like one. Thank you for thinking of us!

Q: I have some food to donate. Can you accept it?

A: We accept any packaged, unopened, unexpired food items. We especially need peanut butter and tuna at this time.

Q: Can I donate toiletries or laundry detergent? What about diapers and wipes?

A: Yes, we accept these items as long as they are in good condition.

Q: I have a bunch of shoes or toys to donate. Do you accept those?

A: We try not to accept shoes or toys, we just don’t have the storage space. But thank you for thinking of us.

Q: I have never been there before. How can I get food/clothing?

A: You can come any day M-F 10:30-1:30. Line up in front of the building and when you are called in tell the person at the front desk that it is your first time. Please bring a photo ID and a bill with your address such as PG& E. We will enter you into our system. If you don’t have these items, that’s OK too, please come anyway, we want you to get the food you need. You can come for food & clothing twice per month.

Q: Can I come for a shower and/or laundry?

A: Yes, we take 1 person per day at 8:00 am. You have 2 hours and need to wrap up by 10:0 am. Please call us for an appointment at 650-365-7829

Q: I need housing. I heard you have affordable housing. How can I apply?

A: We have an affordable housing waiting list. The waiting list is closed at this time. We open the waiting list twice per year.

Q: I am interested in volunteering. What do I need to do to get started?

A: Please email our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@stfrancisrwc.org. We will get back to you as soon as possible and invite you to explore volunteer opportunities.

Q: I am a high school student/scouting group/service club and we would like to volunteer. How can we help?

You can run a drive for us! Gather your group and decide what you would like to collect: diapers, new socks, warm coats, or canned food. Then use your ingenuity to create a plan for how you will collect these items. Email our volunteer coordinator for more information at volunteer@stfrancisrwc.org

Q: I heard you have a school. I would like to enroll my child. How do I do that?

A: Yes, we currently have openings in our 3rd and 6th grade classes for the 2025-26 school year. Please email or call us for an application: stfrancis@stfrancisrwc.org

151 Buckingham Avenue
Redwood City, CA 94063

1.650.365.7829