What We Do​

The STOF Circle of Life

St. Teresa Orphans Foundation (STOF) exists to create a Circle of Life for orphaned, abandoned, neglected, and vulnerable children in the Ruvuma Region of Tanzania, Africa.
We provide everything a child needs to survive, grow, and thrive, to the best of our ability. Our goal is to help each child reach their full potential so they do not return to a life of poverty, instability, and lack.
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Many children arrive at STOF malnourished, traumatized, and without access to education, medical care, or safe housing. Through long-term care and Christian compassion, STOF provides a holistic model of support that restores hope and builds a future.

Meeting Every Need, Restoring Every Life​

The Circle of Life is the heart of our organization. It is a complete circle of care that meets both physical and spiritual needs so that children can thrive.
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This life-giving circle includes: Food, Water, Shelter, Clothing, Medical Care, Education, Transportation, and Spiritual Support.

Food & Nutrition Projects​

STOF provides daily meals and sustainable food programs to support children in our homes and schools.

FORMULA PROJECT
We purchase, ship, and distribute infant formula to orphaned babies in our Babies Home and to vulnerable infants in the surrounding community.

GARDENING & PERMACULTURE PROJECT
​We plant, tend, harvest, and preserve fruits and vegetables for our homes and schools. These gardens also provide training in self-sufficiency and agricultural skills.

DAIRY, GOAT & CHICKEN PROJECTS
We raise dairy cows, goats, and chickens to provide protein sources such as milk, eggs, and meat. These projects also help teach students animal production and care.

FARM PROJECT
Our farm grows staple crops such as grains, maize, beans, and sweet potatoes to support our children’s daily nutrition needs.

Clean Water Projects​

WELL PROJECT
Safe water changes everything. STOF has drilled and installed deep wells at the Golden Gate School campus and at the Babies Home to provide clean, reliable water for children, students, and staff.

Shelter and Safe Homes​

STOF provides stable, loving homes for children who have nowhere else to go.
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BABIES HOME
Our Babies Home rescues and cares for infants and toddlers who are orphaned, abandoned, neglected, or vulnerable. We provide daily nutrition, safety, early childhood care, and medical attention.

CHILDREN'S HOMES
Our Children’s Homes provide safe living environments for primary school-age children. Children receive meals, clothing, supervision, school support, and the consistent care they need to heal and grow.

RETREAT CENTER (Lake Nyasa)
Our Retreat Center is built in the traditional style of the local tribe on the shores of Lake Nyassa. It provides a quiet place for students, staff, and visitors to rest, learn, and fellowship.

Medical & Dental Care​

Good health is essential for children to learn and thrive.

MEDICAL CLINIC & PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER
STOF supports a medical clinic that provides care for our children and for those in the surrounding community. We provide treatment, preventative care, and pregnancy support resources.

DENTAL CLINIC
We also operate a dental clinic to provide basic dental services and treatment. When more complex medical care is needed, STOF partners with local hospitals and specialized facilities.

Education Programs​

Education is one of the most powerful ways to break the cycle of poverty. STOF supports children from early learning through advanced schooling and career preparation.

PRESCHOOL
Located where needs are very great, Bright Hope Preschool is focused on child nutrition and early learning as a foundation for future success. STOF provides early childhood education, nutrition, and uniforms for preschool students. We maintain the building, fence, and playground area.

PRIMARY SCHOOL (K–6)
Education on the Golden Gate School Campus begins in the Primary School wing. Students are bussed to school for a day full of learning, a nutritious breakfast and lunch and breaks to exercise and have fun on the playground.

SECONDARY SCHOOL (7-10)
Our secondary school provides academic instruction and focused exam preparation to help students pass national exams. STOF supports dormitory housing, meals, a library, computer lab, science labs, nurse’s office, kitchen, cafeteria, classrooms, bathrooms and administrative buildings.

TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL (11-12)
STOF is developing a Technical High School to provide advanced education and practical trade skills. Buildings, furnishings, and programming are in progress, and classes are scheduled to begin in July.

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP
Higher education is possible for students who qualify and desire professional careers through sponsorship support from donors.

Entrepreneurship Project

ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM
Job scarcity is an impetus for graduates to start businesses of their own. First funded by outside donors, now, those who are interested in starting their own businesses can apply to the group of STOF Entrepreneurs for a loan for start-up expenses.

Transportation Support​​

Transportation is critical for students to attend school safely and consistently.
STOF provides school buses, drivers, and vehicle maintenance to ensure children can access education, medical care, and community services.

Spiritual Support

Spiritual growth is an important part of the Circle of Life. STOF provides Christian mentorship and opportunities for faith development through:
  • Bible Studies
  • Retreats
  • Vacation Bible School
  • Fellowship opportunities
  • Discipleship and spiritual encouragement

Container Project (USA to Tanzania)​

The STOF Container Project ships donated and purchased goods from our U.S. warehouse in Avon, Minnesota to Songea, Tanzania.
Containers often include clothing, shoes, school supplies, medical equipment, and household items that support children’s daily needs and reduce operational costs.

​Events & Enrichment Activities

Children deserve joy, celebration, and safe community. STOF hosts meaningful events and activities throughout the year, including:
  • Christmas Party with gifts and a banquet
  • Vacation Bible School
  • Retreats and Bible Studies
  • Graduation ceremonies and banquets
  • Swimming pool activities
  • Basketball courts, soccer field, and recreation spaces

​Child Sponsorship Program

Child Sponsorship is one of the most impactful ways supporters can partner with STOF. Sponsorship helps provide food, shelter, medical care, education, clothing, and daily necessities.
STOF also coordinates sponsor relationships through:
  • Sponsorship events
  • Child updates and newsletters
  • Correspondence between sponsored children and sponsors
Sponsors help children experience stability, hope, and the knowledge that they are not alone.