Charitable support for destitute families in India
The Franciscan Family Apostolate (FFA) is a 501 c3 federally tax-exempt charity founded in 1971 to assist the poor and destitute in India regardless of religious belief through family sponsorship, housing, micro-credit loans to develop small business ventures and educational programs. Special attention is given to families effected by HIV/AIDS, widows and orphans. Direct communication is setup between sponsors and families through letter writings and email.
Keywords: Franciscan Family Apostolate, FFA, India, family sponsorship, micro-crediet, busines ventures, educational, HIV/AIDS, widows, orphans.
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Since 1971
What is your primary product or service?
Charitiable
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
Franciscan Order
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
Charitable gifts are personally oriented through development of family relations with a sponsor in the USA to an family in India. Assistance to the family is based on the ability of the sponsor. Contact is made through email and letterwriting through our office in India. Oversight is through the Roman Catholic diocese however aid is given to any family regardless of religious orientation. Prosletyzing is forbidden.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
Two locations in India - Kerala and Andhra Pradeshi. One location in the USA - 303 Church Street, Guilford, CT
Provide detailed directions to your location
IN CT, I-95 to Exit 58. Office is directly across the street from exit - 303 Church Street, Guilford, CT Suite 3.
What type of payments do you accept?
Check and Paypal
Which areas do you service?
Charitable
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
Board of Directors. Daily operation run by founder and president Alan J Ouimet, 93 Country Way, Madison, CT 06443. Mr. Ouimet is a retired Special Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and has received the Humanities award for his work in India by the FBI Foundation. He has been nominated for the National Peace Award by the Order of Franciscan Seculars.
What are your hours of operation?
10 AM to 5 PM
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
To continue to serve their family in India because it has been the most satisfying and blest activity they have done in their lives.
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
My favorite quote is a statement by Saint Francis of Assisi who said "Come brothers, let us always preach the gospel and use words only when necessary."