Since 2006, Father Donato Lwiyando, an Xaverian missionary priest, and a dedicated team of volunteers have devoted their energy to lovingly support and provide hope to young people directly affected by war in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), Africa . Hope of St. Joseph, the first shelter was dedicated to helping young girls and young women.

In 2019, Father Donato welcomed 26 boys, ages 6-12 from the streets and rented a palace to give them a home. This became St.Mary’s.

Building a New St. Mary's

A permanent place was purchased in 2022 by Father’s Xaverian Order. Hope of St. Joseph Shelters Inc. has been paying for the tear down and reconstruction of the New St. Mary’s. In November 2023, the boys were able to move into the basement which has 3 rooms, after beds and mattresses were purchased.; Construction is ongoing. Their water is not connected yet.  But this is a city wide problem They are pouring concrete and installing doors and windows. There will be 3 classrooms on the second floor and ideally they would like to add another floor of classrooms.  That would allow them to take in neighbouring children as students and recoup the cost of the teacher’s wages with the outside student’s tuition.