There is a saying that if there was only one loaf of bread left in the entire world, the Franciscan Friars should have it. Why? Because they would share it with everyone! This is the heart of our story. The friars care for all of creation with compassion and joy through diverse outreach and social service ministries. We minister to people ignored and neglected, and who would otherwise not be helped in any other way. The friars help millions of people every year who suffer with poverty, hunger, addiction, mental illness, and other hardships.

In autumn 2023, Franciscan Friars in five provinces of the United States unified to form the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe, signaling the beginning of a new era for Franciscan ministry across the U.S. and in our missions in Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Jamaica. It also created the unique opportunity for friars, along with thousands of secular Franciscans, lay volunteers, and donors and supporters, to advance—with a new and unparalleled reach— the Franciscan mission of serving the poor, desperate, and forgotten who seek help from the friars every day.

FRANCISCAN FRIARS Charities is the official charitable arm of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe. We exist to support the Province’s ministries and outreach—caring for people in need; educating future friars; and caring for elder brothers—by stewarding the generous gifts entrusted to them.

 An important part of our story is Franciscan-hearted people, like you, whose prayer, support, and generosity enable FRANCISCAN FRIARS Charities to power this meaningful work. Your generosity is an investment in the friars’ mission of healing, uniting, and transforming the lives of the most vulnerable.