Every child deserves a kuya who looks out for them.
Kuya Center gives children in street situations a safe home, a path back to school, and the support to grow with dignity and hope.
What is happening at the center.
See what's happening day to day
We post photos and news from the center regularly on our Facebook page. Follow us to keep up with the children's activities, events, and visits from friends and partners.
Caring for children is a Filipino value. We help bring it back.
"Kuya" means older brother. For 35 years, the center has been that older brother for children with nowhere safe to go.
Our vision
A Philippine society where the value of caring for children thrives, ensuring that all children are protected, afforded dignity, given equitable opportunities for holistic development, nurtured in safe and supportive environments, and empowered to claim their identity as children of God and become responsible and productive citizens.
Our mission
Kuya Center is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and rehabilitative residential environment for children in street situations, fostering their holistic development and overall well-being.
Kuya Center collaborates with families, communities, and like-minded people and organizations to prevent children from living in the streets or returning to street life by strengthening family capacities, reducing vulnerabilities, and promoting access to education, protection, and development opportunities.
Our goal
To help children in street situations readjust their lives so they can undertake succeeding phases of rehabilitation and development, and eventually become responsible and effective members of their families, communities, and Philippine society.
Founded by Brothers, built on brotherly love.
Kuya Center was founded by the Luzon Association of Religious Brothers (LARB) to share their deep brotherly love and concern with the least fortunate children of Metro Manila. Answering the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines’ call to be the Church of the Poor, the Brothers chose to share their resources and brotherhood with children in street situations.
Founded on February 14 by the Luzon Association of Religious Brothers.
Registered with the SEC on October 11 as a non-stock, non-profit organization. Registered, licensed and accredited by the DSWD.
After 18 years in a rented place, the center bought its own property, giving the children a secure, permanent home.
New facilities were built on the property.
Permanently located at 6 Saint Michael Street, Immaculate Conception, Cubao, Quezon City.
The children we care for, and where we work.
Our beneficiaries
We serve abandoned, neglected, and orphaned children in street situations within Metro Manila. Our residence primarily cares for boys aged 5 to 15 upon admission.
In exceptional cases, a child may stay beyond 15 if family reunification is not yet possible or no capable relatives are available. When that happens, our social workers and case management team arrange referrals to institutions that can support the child’s continuing development and best interests.
Where we work
Residential program. We accept referrals mainly from our Street Education Team, the City Social Welfare and Development Offices (CSWDO) of cities across Metro Manila, and partner NGOs. Every referral goes through a thorough assessment and evaluation.
Community program. We serve children living in our adoptive communities in Quezon City:
We may expand to other areas of Metro Manila as resources allow and in line with our mission and strategic priorities.
From the street, to a home, to standing on their own.
Residential Care
A safe home inside the center, with food, schooling, counseling, and caring adults, while each child prepares for the next step.
Community Program
Street education, scholarships, parenting sessions, and livelihood training that keep children in school and with their families.
Independent Living
Life skills, education, and guidance for older youth as they move from the center to a self-reliant life in the community.
Help us open a facilityWhat your support makes possible.
13 scholars step inside the world of work
On September 26, 2026, thirteen of our Junior and Senior High School scholars joined Skillapalooza, a company tour held through our partnership with the Rotary Club of Mandaluyong. 247 Super Signs and Champion Fine Tooling Corp. opened their doors and showed them what a working day looks like and what careers are possible.
More than a tour, it gave our scholars exposure, inspiration, and hope to dream bigger. Our heartfelt thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Apollo Tan and the members of the Rotary Club of Mandaluyong for believing in the potential of our children.
See more photos and details on FacebookBoard of Trustees
The volunteers who guide Kuya Center and answer for how every peso is used.
Our staff
Social workers, houseparents, street educators, and teachers who are with the children every day.
Our major plans this year, and where partners can help.
Companies, clubs, and individuals can adopt any item on this list, in full or in part.
Kitchen renovation
New kitchen tiles and cabinets.
Scholar allowances
Monthly educational allowance for our 58 community scholars.
Solar panels
To lower electricity costs and use cleaner energy at the center.
L300 service vehicle
Safe, reliable transport for school, medical visits, and outreach.
Livelihood projects
For youth and parents in our partner communities.
Daily shelter needs
Food, vitamins, medicine, clothing, and educational assistance.
Independent living house
Building, buying, or renting a home for our older youth.
Program software
A computerized system to run our programs and services more efficiently.
Volunteers
To help with computer lessons, daily tutorials, musical instruments, and arts and crafts.
Want to help with an item? Call 8705-1207 or email kuyacenter@yahoo.com.
Three ways to stand with the children.
Volunteer
Help with computer lessons, daily tutorials, music, or arts and crafts. [HOW TO APPLY AND WHO TO CONTACT]
Partner with us
Companies, schools, and clubs can sponsor a scholar, a program, or any item on our wishlist.