Late homeless remembered

More than 50 people gathered at Father Woody’s Haven of Hope on the morning of Nov. 17 to remember the homeless who have recently died.  The day shelter is operated by the Franciscan Friends of the Poor.

The prayer service consisted of Scripture readings and songs and was a celebration of love and affection, said Sister Francine Schwarzenberger, O.P., Haven of Hope house manager.

“In the last month and a half we’ve had seven of our guests die,” the Dominican sister said. 

“Many of our guests have known each other for years.  We thought this was a good way to say goodbye to those who’ve gone.”

Jason Dix is the office manager for Haven of Hope.  He said the shelter has held such a services before.

“Last summer two of our guests passed away and we held a similar service for them in June,” he said.  “Whenever we get information from the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless or Health and Human Services regarding a death, we want to acknowledge it in some form if they were in fact ever guests of our organization.”

Father Woody’s Haven of Hope, located at 1101 W. 7th Ave. in Denver provides many services to the poor and homeless including hot meals, hot showers, medical co-pays, travel assistance and laundry service.   The shelter accepts donations from local business, grocers, churches, restaurants and individuals to continue their work.  Anyone wishing to make a donation can contact the shelter online at frwoodyshavenofhope.org or by calling 303-607-0855.