In Bosnia-Herzegovina, there are no government programs, community programs or private programs to assist families with a mentally or physically handicapped special-needs child. The person who the people have always turned to is their parish priest. When concerned parents of special-needs children approached Father Jozo Zovko, he said he would pray about the problem and see what could be done. He was led to contact the Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation of Milan, Italy and they agreed to travel to Siroki Brijeg and survey the situation. The Foundation immediately recognized the need and agreed to build a rehabilitation center and train its staff. The Foundation had the experience of establishing  eleven such centers in Italy.

Opening of the Chapel

On September 5, 2003, the “Mary Our Hope” Rehabilitation Center opened its doors to begin serving the needs of handicapped children living in Western Bosnia-Herzegovina. As more and more parents of special-needs children have learned of the center’s existence, the demand for its services has grown to the point where it is necessary to expand to meet the demand. “Mary Our Hope” Center currently serves over 300 special-needs children with almost as many more wait-listed.

St. Clare, Helper of the Poor, Inc. has been authorized by Father Jozo to be the representatives for fund raising in the United States. As part of this effort, we have instituted a 'Sponsor-a-special-needs child' program to raise funds to support the operations of the center. 

It is our fervent desire that all will open their hearts and help Father Jozo help these children who are in such great need.  

To learn how to become a sponsor in this program, please visit our 'Become a Sponsor' page.

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