San Salvador Council #283

Since 1897 the Knights of Columbus San Salvador Council #283 has been proudly serving the Catholic community of South Philadelphia.

In 1882 the Knights of Columbus were founded on the principles of charity, unity and fraternity, by Father Michael J. McGivney and a group of parishioners. Their mission? To bring financial aid and assistance to the sick, disabled and needy members and their families.

The San Salvador Council #283 works to continue this mission today.

Father McGivney is currently being considered for sainthood

Check out our latest updates below!

See how you can help support your local community and the work of the Knights of Columbus in Philadelphia

Upcoming events

The Knights of Columbus San Salvador Council #283 in South Philadelphia is holding our annual Spring Diaper Drive for Mercy Hospice! All donations raised will benefit the women and children served by the great people of Mercy Hospice, located right here in Philadelphia.

For mothers in need, diapers are often a heavy financial burden. Food stamps and WIC do not cover diapers, and babies need up to 12 diapers a day to stay clean, dry and healthy. The Knights of Columbus asks you to join them in addressing this need for Philadelphia mothers and their children.

We have 2 ways to donate:

1) Monetary Donations: our primary way to donate.  Donations raised will be used to purchase cases of diapers needed for the children of the women served at Mercy Hospice. To contribute, please follow our donation link: Diaper Drive 2025

2) In-Kind Donations: we will be collecting donations of NEW baby diapers (Sizes 1-4) and wipes at our collection locations.  We will also be collecting NEW baby bottles, pacifiers, baby shampoo and baby lotion and diaper cream, as well as NEW and LIGHTLY USED baby clothing.  (baby formula, strollers, shoes, and towels WILL NOT be accepted). 

Donation Drop Locations:

  • Epiphany of Our Lord Parish - 1121 Jackson St #1, Philadelphia, PA 19148

  • St. Paul Parish - 808 S. Hutchinson Street  Philadelphia, PA 19147

  • The National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia - 1166 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19146

Mercy Hospice Diaper Drive

More about Mercy Hospice

"Mercy Hospice is a community grounded in faith and service where single women and mothers with children, experiencing homelessness and in recovery can find opportunities for new beginnings."

Mercy Hospice has been a vital part of the social safety net in Philadelphia for over 35 years.  They offer a range of residential services to assist homeless women in recovery, with the mission of alleviating the poverty and family instability caused by serious addictions, associated trauma and mental health issues. Mercy Hospice fulfills an essential ministry of the Catholic Church by reducing poverty, restoring and strengthening families, and promoting the integral health and well-being of those struggling to break the bonds of addiction.

2025 S. 9th Street Italian Market Festival

Thank you to everyone who came out to the Italian Market Festival and Procession of the Saints this past weekend! It is without question one of our Council’s favorite days of the year.

This year the new Mother Cabrini Statue made her debut in the procession. We also had a phenomenal fundraising effort from our brothers working our booth, bringing in much needed funds to help support our works here in Philadelphia.

Thank you to our hosts in the 9th Street Italian Market, and to all of the volunteers from Saint Paul and Saint Mary Magdalen de Pazzi.

Vivat Jesus!

Annual Spring Clothing Drive

The Knights of Columbus San Salvador Council #283 in South Philadelphia is holding our annual Spring Clothing Drive. All donations raised are for the men, women and children served by our partner ministries throughout the City of Philadelphia.

Donation bins will be located in the back of our churches during the months of April and May.  Acceptable donations include:

  • New and gently used men's, women's and children's clothing (all sizes)

  • Men's and women's underwear and socks (NEW ONLY)

  • Towels and Sheets

  • Men's belts

  • New and gently used shoes (no sandals)

  • Desk/Bedside lamps and end tables

  • Strollers

New socks, underwear and men’s belts are of particular need. We will also be accepting donations of new toiletries and gift cards on behalf of our ministry partners at the St. Paul Parish Homeless Ministry.

In Kind donations of new diapers and baby supplies for the Spring Diaper Drive can also be dropped off during our collection days

Any questions please contact us:

  Email: kofcsouthphilly@gmail.com

2025 Philadelphia St. Patrick's Day Mass and Parade - PA Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus San Salvador Council #283 and PA Knights of Columbus we’re proud to once more take part in the Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Mass & Parade this year! Our council is honored to be a part of this celebration of Irish heritage, culture and faith.

A beautiful mass at St. Patrick's Church in Rittenhouse Square with Archbishop Nelson Perez. Thank you to all of our brothers, family and friends who took part this year. And thank you to all those who have worked so hard to make this day possible for our city and community. Vivat Jesus!

How to Support the Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus are a Catholic organization focused on supporting the local community and parishes through our faith as well as through volunteer opportunities, fundraisers, and donations.

San Salvador Council #283

Meet the Team

  • Jon Tamarin

    Grand Knight

  • Michael Anastasi

    Deputy Grand Knight

  • Sam Shipley

    Treasurer

  • Bill DeFeo

    Financial Secretary