Haircuts from the Heart, the first of our programs, was founded by Sr. Bonnie Steinlage in 1988.


A few years later, in 1992, Our Lady of the Woods opened its doors under the direction of Sr. Antonita Mettert and remained open until late 2019.


Tau House, formerly Franciscans for the Poor, began in 1996, under the guidance of Sr. Marie Clement Edrich.


In 2010, both the Centennial Barn and Tamar's Center, opened their doors.  The restoration of the Centennial Barn was spearheaded by Sr. Arlene McGowan, and the leading force behind Tamar's Center was Sr. Grace Miriam Pleiman. 


These programs became incorporated under the auspice of Franciscan Ministries, Inc. in January of 2012.


In 2016, the Community Garden became a full program under Franciscan Ministries, Inc.


The Centennial Barn closed its doors to event rentals in 2022. The space is now host to non-profits, including Franciscan Ministries, for their offices and programming.


Franciscan Ministries, Inc. grew out of the community work of the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor.


In keeping with their Franciscan heritage, these ministries focused on serving those in need. The ministries are an extension of this long history of service to the poor.


​​Our History