Francis Fund Recipient: SREHUP

SREHUP is built upon a strong foundation of student volunteers committed to the fight against homelessness in Philadelphia. The Francis Fund grant will help support their Emergency Shelter Services at Arch Street Methodist Church. Check out some of the students and guests working together on a collaborative art project with Isaiah Zagar at the Philadelphia Magic Gardens. 

SREHUP is about building community between students and guests, and tearing down barriers and stereotypes. With that in mind, we engage in community building art projects. One art project that has been deeply rewarding for guests and volunteers alike is the Isaiah Zagar- SREHUP partnership. Mosaicist Isaiah Zagar takes our students and guests to his workshop at Magic Gardens and teachers us the mosaic making process. We then go to a wall in the city to build a mosaic together.

This project not only solidifies community, but also gives people experiencing homelessness an opportunity to learn valuable skills, and take responsibility for beautifying the city. The experience is also a metaphor: like the pieces of mosaic tiles and mirrors, we're all a little broken. But together we're putting the pieces back together to create a work of splendor.