Celebrating 80 Years of Healing and Hope
Founded in 1945 by the Rev. Robert Mize Jr. in Ellsworth, Kansas, our mission began with a small home for 12 boys in need of a second chance. What started as one priest’s vision has grown into a ministry that now serves thousands across six states.
Over eight decades, our work has expanded to include foster care, adoption, behavioral health, residential programs, Family Centered Treatment®, Fatherhood FIRE, independent living, and in-home prevention. Yet our mission remains the same: to bring healing and hope to children and families.
2025 Impact Report
Hope in Every Story
This year’s Impact Report celebrates 80 years of hope, healing, and second chances at Saint Francis Ministries. Guided by our belief in the dignity and worth of every person, we continue our mission to strengthen families, support children, and transform lives. Our 2024–2025 theme, Hope in Every Story, reflects the countless journeys we witness each day. This milestone year is both a celebration of our legacy and a commitment to the future, ensuring that hope remains at the heart of everything we do.
Success Stories
Matt’s Story
Matt’s journey is a powerful story of redemption, resilience, and the impact of compassionate support. After struggling with a 15-year addiction and multiple CPS cases, Matt hit rock bottom when
Brett’s Story
In this testimonial, we hear from Brett, a resident at Bridgeway, a Saint Francis Ministries program in Picayune, Mississippi that supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Brett shares
David’s Story
David, a former teacher and school administrator, is now a foster parent with Saint Francis Ministries and a behavior intervention specialist. Inspired by his grandmother and a deep desire to
80 Years, 8,000 Hours
For our 80 year celebration of Saint Francis, we want to also give back to our communities and neighbors by participating in 8,000 hours of service. Learn more about our community service project here.
Our Priorities
Prevention
In-Home Services
FCT, Seeking Safety, & Family Preservation
Community Based Services
Fatherhood & Job Support Outpatient Behavioral Health
Out-of-Home
Permanency Case Management
Reintegration, Foster Care, Adoption, & Independent Living
Resource Home Sponsorship
Foster Care Homes, Kinship Homes, & Therapeutic Foster Care
Residential
Qualified Residential Treatment
Psychiatric Residential Treatment
Intellectual and Developmental
Disabilities
Recent News
Deep breath
The Lord God proclaims to these bones: I am about to put breath in you, and you will live again. I will put sinews on you, place flesh on you,
Is there still room in your year to change lives?
As we near the end of 2025, we hope you’ll take a few minutes to browse the Saint Francis Ministries website. In this, our 80th year, even a quick look
SFM Launches 8,000 Hours of Volunteerism
The Reverend Robert Mize Jr. founded Saint Francis Boys’ Home in 1945 in Ellsworth, Kansas, to serve 12 adolescent boys who needed a second shot at life. Today, Saint Francis
Ready to Change a Life?
We believe that the world needs more individuals who are willing to step up, lend a helping hand, and be a beacon of hope for those in need. Join us in making a lasting impact.
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