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courtesy St. Francis Center

St. Francis Center celebrated its 40th anniversary Sept. 26 with a community block party and a ceremony honoring donors who fully funded a planned inclusive park in North Fair Oaks.

Nearly 500 people attended the celebration, according to a news release from the nonprofit, which provides food, clothing, housing and education to low-income families in North Fair Oaks and surrounding communities.

The Magical Bridge Pocket Park, planned for 186 Buckingham Ave., will offer accessible play features and a sensory-friendly space for people of all ages and abilities. Construction is expected to begin in early 2027, according to the center. The project is a partnership with the Magical Bridge Foundation.

Founded in 1986, St. Francis Center began providing food, clothing and other essentials from a small neighborhood house. Its programs have since expanded to include affordable housing, Holy Family School and Siena Youth Center.

The ceremony also honored Tess Weber’s more than two decades of service to local families, with attendees holding sunflowers in tribute. A block party followed at the center, 151 Buckingham Ave., featuring food, children’s activities, music and dance performances.

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