Capuchin Day Centre

for homeless people

In memory of His Holiness Pope Francis

It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis on 21st April 2025.

The Capuchin Day Centre was graced by a visit of Pope Francis on 25th August 2018 through which he demonstrated his love for the poor. We remember his message to us:

“You are especially attuned with people of God, and indeed, with the poor. You have the grace of contemplating the wounds of Jesus in those in need, those who suffer, those who are unfortunate or destitute, or full of vices and defects. For you this is the flesh of Christ. This is your witness, and the Church needs it.”

May Pope Francis Rest in Peace.

Fr. Kevin Kiernan OFM Cap

Founded in 1969 by Capuchin friar, Brother Kevin Crowley, and inspired by the spirit of St Francis Assisi, the Centre was set up to ‘relieve the hardship endured by homeless people.

Situated in Bow Street, Dublin 7, the Day Centre started out providing meals for the homeless in Dublin and has developed its services over the years to meet the presenting needs of those who come seeking food and support.

Capuchin Day Centre

From hot meals, food parcels, showering facilities and clothing to medical, optical, dental and family services, the Capuchin Day Centre is committed to providing practical, meaningful support to those who seek help.

Those who come to the Day Centre for support are considered to be our guests. They are welcomed without judgement and are served on a “no questions asked” basis.

In line with the values of the Irish Capuchin Friars the Centre works on the principle that no one should go hungry and offers support that is non-judgemental, open to all, and places the dignity and respect of our guests at the heart of what we do.

OUR HELP IN NUMBERS

In 2024 we provided

  • 345,593
    hot meals for adults and families
  • 78,610
    food parcels
  • 4,133
    clinic services (GP, Nurse, Chiropodist, Dentist, Optician)
  • 11,155
    hygiene services (Showers, Clothing, Haircuts)
  • 16,249
    infant parcels (nappies and baby formula)
  • 1,073
    families supported (including 1,854 children)
  • 250
    back to school packs 
  • 50
    maternity packs 

Food and Meal services

We serve approximately 350 guests for breakfast and 700 people for dinner each day and distribute over 1450 food parcels each week.

Medical and Hygiene services

Our onsite team of clinical professionals supports the health and well-being of homeless people.  We also provide washing and showering facilities, haircuts and clean clothes.

Family Support services

From infant packs with baby formula and nappies, to children’s toys, school bags and books, we help ease the broader needs of families in food poverty.  These essential interventions are complemented by health-related supports from our onsite clinical team and initiatives that promote social inclusion by our family support service.