Making Men Feel ‘at Home’ at St. Christopher’s Inn
- hollytoal
- 18 minutes ago
- 2 min read
St. Christopher’s Inn at Graymoor welcomed the start of 2026 by celebrating meaningful improvements to its Garrison grounds and facilities, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to the care and dignity of men overcoming addiction.
“These renovations are not just about buildings, but about fostering healing, community, and a renewed sense of home,” said Fr. Dennis Polanco, spiritual director and president of St. Christopher’s Inn.
At the beginning of the year, the Franciscan Friars of the Atonement at Graymoor gathered for a small ribbon-cutting ceremony to bless newly renovated showers and sinks for the men served at the inn, which provides lifesaving treatment to thousands each year.
The upgraded sink areas now also include electric hand dryers – an enhancement that supports sustainability efforts by reducing reliance on paper towels and minimizing waste, in keeping with Franciscan values.
Additional bathroom renovations are scheduled to begin soon, with the goal of completing upgrades to all bathrooms by the end of 2026.
In 2025, the friars also turned their attention to the dining hall and kitchen, renewing these shared spaces to better embody Franciscan hospitality and create an environment that is brighter, more welcoming, and more conducive to fellowship and connection. The kitchen received fresh paint and new epoxy flooring, improving both functionality and cleanliness in a space central to daily life at the inn.
The dining room itself was refreshed with new paint, updated accent lamp fixtures, and the addition of a coffee station featuring specially designed cabinetry. This inviting space allows the men to enjoy coffee and daily breaks together in a setting that encourages conversation, connection, and community.
These enhancements were intentionally designed to foster a sense of dignity and comfort – making the dining hall feel more like a home and less like a residential setting.
In keeping with the Franciscan value “that nothing be lost,” former dining tables were redistributed to the inn’s thrift shop, employees, and members of the surrounding community.
The Friars of the Atonement continue to seek ways both large and small to improve the daily lives of the men they serve, ensuring the inn remains a place of healing, respect, and hope.
“At St. Christopher’s Inn, every improvement we make is ultimately about honoring the dignity of the men entrusted to our care,” said Polanco. “By creating spaces that are welcoming, sustainable, and rooted in simplicity, we affirm a fundamental Franciscan belief – that each person deserves to be treated with respect, compassion, and hope.
St. Christopher’s Inn is committed to providing dignified, compassionate, and lifesaving care. To support the completion of this renovation project and the mission of the inn, visit www.StChristophersInn.org/Donate or contact Audrey Warn at 845-424-2142.