Poverello House is a private, nonprofit, nondenominational organization that serves the hungry. There, Mike found the answer to his problems: service to others.
Poverello House began officially in 1973, but it’s history goes back much further. In the turbulent 1960s, a young man named Mike McGarvin was on the fast track to becoming one of the many casualties of the decade. Drugs, alcohol, violence and hopelessness were his daily companions, until he found a place in San Francisco called Poverello House. The priest who ran the coffee house asked Mike to vo
lunteer, and the experience changed his life. The San Francisco Poverello served people who were characterized by poverty and despair. It was a place where they could come to find acceptance, a smile, and unconditional love. Several years later, Mike married and moved to Fresno. He was now a photoengraver, but was searching for a way to repay God for saving his life. The answer came when he noticed homeless people on the streets of Fresno. Mike knew what to do; he would hand out peanut butter sandwiches, talk to people, and let them know someone cared. Mike’s small ministry soon grew, and others began to help. A storefront building was obtained, and he named it after the place that had saved him in San Francisco: Poverello House. The mission thrived until the building burned down. Mike and the volunteers went back to the streets and alleys. Soon they had another building, but they were evicted, and once again took to the streets. Finally, through the generous contribution of a donor, Poverello House opened in its current site at 412 “F” Street. From this location, the organization has grown tremendously. In 1992, a major expansion and renovation was completed, more than doubling the size of the building and broadening services. Poverello House now serves three meals a day, 365 days a year, to anyone in need; offers free medical and dental care through the Holy Cross Clinic; provides showers and laundry services to the homeless; serves as a day shelter and safe haven for people on the streets; houses a 28-bed residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation program, and a five-bed transitional home; distributes free clothing; provides recreation, mail service, transportation, and referral services; offers an alternative to sleeping on the streets at the Michael McGarvin Jr. Village of Hope; in collaboration with Holy Cross Center for Women, provides a shelter for homeless women called Naomi’s House; and, finally, has a homeless dog kennel for abandoned pets. Since the beginning, volunteers have always been a big part of our work. People enjoy helping here because Poverello provides a structured, safe environment in which to work; opportunities to assist the homeless in a tangible way; and a friendly, positive atmosphere. Poverello House is able to serve the community primarily through the contributions of individuals, churches, businesses, and civic groups who donate their labor, money, or goods. We welcome inquiries about our organization, and are happy to speak to groups or conduct tours of the facility.
“Poverello” is an Italian word that means “little poor man,” a reference to St. Francis of Assisi, who gave away all his worldly possessions and dedicated his life to serving the poor.
05/30/2026
Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this year’s event such a success. We loved seeing our community come together for a fun evening filled with great energy, connection, and support.
A special thank you to the amazing businesses and community partners who generously donated and supported Fig Gig 2026: The Red Room, Elbow Room, Fresno State Bulldogs Football, Bulldog Locker, La Boulangerie, Engelmann Cellars, Mad Duck, Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Reptile Ron Animal Presentations, Fresno Discovery Center, John’s Incredible Pizza, Me N Eds Pizzeria, Metal Mark 2 Climbing Classes, Elaine’s Pet Resorts, Castillo’s Mexican Restaurant, Batter Up Pancakes, Fresno State Bowling, Gazebo Gardens Gardening, and Rosie’s Flower Shop.
Your generosity helps us continue making a difference in the lives of those we serve, and we are so grateful for your support. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make Fig Gig 2026 such a memorable night! 💛🎉
📸 Photo Credit: Kendyl Day Photography
05/29/2026
At Poverello House, we understand that mental health is essential to overall well-being. Each day, we offer compassionate care, resources, and a welcoming space for individuals facing mental health challenges, ensuring each person is treated with dignity and respect.
Our founder, Papa Mike McGarvin, believed in the humanity of every person and the power of kindness and compassion. His legacy continues to guide our mission as we work to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
Mental health matters every day. This month and beyond, let us continue to raise awareness, show compassion, and create a community where everyone feels seen, valued, and heard. 💚
05/28/2026
Ready to run, walk, and make a difference? 12th Annual Papa Mike’s Café Run for Meals benefiting Papa Mike’s Café at Poverello House!
📅 Saturday, June 6, 2026
📍 Woodward Park, Sunset View Shelter
7775 N Friant Rd, Fresno, CA
⏰ 8:00 AM | 2 Mile Run/Walk
⏰ 8:15 AM | 5K Run
There’s still time to register and be part of something meaningful, but don’t wait too long! Pricing increases this Saturday, so sign up now to lock in the current rate. 🏃♀️❤️
In honor of Memorial Day, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Today, we reflect with gratitude on their courage and service.
Please note that administrative offices will be closed on Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day.
☕ Papa Mike’s Café will remain open on a weekend schedule:
The 12th Annual Papa Mike’s Café Run for Meals, benefiting Papa Mike’s Café at Poverello House, is almost here! Join us for a meaningful morning of movement, community, and giving back.
🗓 Saturday, June 6, 2026
📍 Woodward Park – Sunset View Shelter
7775 N Friant Rd, Fresno, CA
⏰ 8:00 AM – 2-Mile Run/Walk
⏰ 8:15 AM – 5K Run
There’s still time to register — grab your spot and be part of something meaningful! ❤️
Fig Gig is happening tonight at Fig Garden Village!
Enjoy an evening of live music by the Marie Wilson Band, exciting raffle baskets, and a chance to support the work of Poverello House.
Grab your friends and stop by for a fun night out while helping make a difference for individuals and families in our community.
📅 Thursday, May 21, 2026
⏰ 7:00 PM
📍 Fig Garden Village, 790 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93704
We hope to see you there! 💙🎶✨
05/18/2026
Looking for Thursday night plans? We’ve got you covered!
Head over to Fig Gig at Fig Garden Village for a fun night featuring live music by the Marie Wilson Band, exciting raffle prizes, and a chance to support the life changing work of Poverello House. 💙
Every raffle ticket purchased helps provide critical programs and services for the individuals and families we serve throughout our community.
📅 Thursday, May 21, 2026
⏰ 7:00 PM
📍 Fig Garden Village, 790 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93704
Bring your friends, enjoy the music, and be part of a night that makes a difference.
We hope to see you there! 🎵✨
05/15/2026
In 2025, together, we housed 717 individuals, including 606 adults and 111 children. 🏡
Behind every number is a story of resilience, hope, and a new beginning. Every key handed over represents more than housing. It represents stability, safety, and the chance to start again.
Thank you to our staff, partners, donors, and community for making this possible as we continue working to end homelessness one person at a time.
05/13/2026
🏃♀️❤️ 23 days away!
The countdown is on for the 12th Annual Papa Mike’s Café Run for Meals benefiting Poverello House.
From the 5K and 2-Mile Run/Walk to making PB&J sandwiches for those we serve, this special morning helps provide meals while bringing our community together for a great cause.
🗓 Saturday, June 6, 2026
📍 Woodward Park, Sunset View Shelter
7775 N Friant Rd, Fresno, CA
This Mother’s Day, Papa Mike’s Café offered a warm brunch and a moment of care for mothers in our community.
Together, we served 342 meals featuring Stuffed French Toast Bake, Breakfast Frittata, Hand-Carved Ham Steaks, and appetizers with drink pairings.
A shared meal can bring comfort, connection, and a moment to simply feel cared for. Thank you to everyone who helped make this gathering possible and to the mothers who joined us, we were grateful to spend this special day together.
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05/30/2026
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