The institute was founded in
Como on March 24, 1908 by
Italian priest Luigi Guanella, (1842 - 1915), a friend of
David Albertario and
Giuseppe Toniolo. He was sensitive to issues of social outcasts and the handicapped. This gave birth to a religious community to provide the needs of the poor. Their motto reads "In Omnibus Charitas" (
In all things Love). The congregation obtained the recognition of ecclesiastical institution of pontifical right with
decree of praise, 1912 and was again approved in 1928. There is also the female branch of
Daughters of Saint Mary of Providence. == Activities and dissemination ==