History
The Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement arrived in Edmonton in 1928 to administer a home for young women from central Alberta's rural centers, who were attending school in the city. Seven years after their arrival, their focus shifted to the temporary care of children. The Sisters moved the program to their present address at 11035 92 Street in 1942.

In 1958, an Advisory Board was formed. The purpose of the Advisory Board was to provide assistance to the Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement (Edmonton) Governing Board. The Advisory Board is essential to the success of the programs and their funding to this day. Advisory Board members are asked to provide counsel and assistance in matters pertaining to education, fundraising, and the needs and well being of all persons served in the programs.

In 1983 the Sisters established the Franciscan Sisters Benevolent Society, registered as a not-for-profit religious charity on December 5, 1983. On April1, 1988, the administration of all programs managed by the Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement in Vancouver and Edmonton was transferred to the Franciscan Sisters Benevolent Society.

In October 1988, Atonement Home as a residence for children ceased to exist. The Franciscan Sisters Benevolent Society opened the doors to the Atonement Home Multicultural Day Care Centre, the Lurana Family Centre, plus a 20 bed children's receiving and crisis care program.

In May of 1992, the Franciscan Sisters Benevolent Society was named sponsor for the inner city battered women's shelter. The new Lurana Shelter was opened in 1993. The same year, the C.A.P. (Child and Parent) Head Start Program replaced the day care centre.

In January of 2007, the Lurana Shelter Society was Incorporated. The Franciscan Sisters Benevolent Society Transferred the administration of the program Lurana Shelter to Lurana Shelter Society.

In June of 2008, C.A.P. (Child and Parent) Head Start Program ceased to exist.

In February of 2009, The Franciscan Sisters Benevolent Society began the implementation of new programs.

In April of 2009, the Franciscan Sisters Benevolent Society opened a new program Franciscan Centre.

Today, the Franciscan Sisters Benevolent Society is transitioning to new ministry to support and serve Edmonton’s inner city.