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A Worthwhile Challenge for Those in Need
The Franciscan Challenge, the flagship fundraising campaign of Franciscan Friars Charities, launched its Spring 2026 campaign on April 28th with the first of six video testimonials from Franciscan ministries across the U.S. and in Jamaica.
The first stirring testimonial came from the rural settlement of Revival, Jamaica, where access to education, medical care, and basic opportunities was difficult before Hurricane Melissa—now, it’s even harder. The video features Kemar, who—thanks to generous donors and the work of the friars—has access to poverty-breaking education at the Revival Catholic Primary School.
“It’s not just a school,” shared Kemar. “It’s a part of the community and part of a family… Fr. Colin has had a great impact on my life.”
On May 5th, the Franciscan Challenge’s second video presented a moving collage of testimonials titled “Women of the Ministries,” featuring women who have relied on Franciscan ministries for food, clothing, safety, and survival.
“The clothing helped a lot because we had lost everything,” said Susan, a regular guest of the St. Anthony Food Pantry in St. Louis. “This place has held me up and kept me together.”
With four additional videos scheduled to release every Tuesday through June 4th via email and on social media, there will be plenty of opportunities for prospective “Challenge-takers’ to enjoy a unique fundraising transparency that will again show how impactful their gifts can be.
Funds raised by The Franciscan Challenge will support the featured ministries and the over 7.2 million women, children, and men who come to the friars for help each year. They will also help to educate young friars and care for retired and elder friars who have served so many for so long.
Those with Franciscan hearts can take the Spring 2026 Franciscan Challenge and help the friars provide care to those in need at challenge.franciscanfriarscharities.org.