On December 12, 1900, the Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother, while maintaining service at the Hospital in Wabasha, also took over the management of the St. Joseph Orphanage which was supported by the Diocese of La Crosse. This was a choice of further sacrifice, certainly, but also a charitable need felt by the Congregation led by Mother Frances. From the beginning, caring for orphans and educating children, especially the poor and vulnerable ones, had been an indispensable priority, with every sacrifice done with joy and love.