History

Founded in 2003, the Portiuncula Foundation supports efforts to advance the health and well-being of society in communities where the Sisters of St. Francis minister. The foundation represents the “Little Portion” that God has given to the Sisters of St. Francis to help further the work of God in our world and to celebrate a portion of God’s goodness. The foundation also manages the restricted gifts and charitable funds formerly held at the Pittsburgh based St. Francis Health Foundation, St. Francis Hospital of New Castle, and St. Francis Medical Center in a manner in keeping with the original intent of the donors.

Portiuncula, an Italian word used by St. Francis of Assisi, translates as “Little Portion.” The word is pronounced: (port-see-oonk-ooo-lah).