The Little Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi is an indigenous Congregation founded in 1923 by Irish Franciscan missionary, Mother Mary Kevin Kearney. The Order was first started in Uganda, and has spread to Tanzania and Kenya, tending to the poor and the needy that they are called to love and serve, through apostolate ministry, such as education; healthcare, including managing hospitals and dispensaries; catechetical work; and social services, including caring for street children, single mothers, the aged, people with disabilities, and orphans.