Since 1901 at the same location in Mobile, Alabama, we have worked hard to give compassionate care to elderly men and women of the Gulf Coast region who have outlived their resources. More than 4,000 people from all walks of life, of all religions and beliefs, have made their home with us in Mobile.
At the request of Bishop Edward P. Allen, we first arrived on the Feast of the Sacred Heart, June 13, 1901. Major Patrick C. Hannan graciously donated the first Home and property on McGill Avenue and Monterey Street. Our goal then, as now, was to love and care for the elderly poor. In November of that same year, we welcomed the first Residents. One year later there were already 40 elderly persons residing in our Home!
Increasing demand resulted in the need for a larger residence. Our confidence in God and zeal for caring for His poor earned the respect, love, and support of many friends and benefactors. Through alms and a gift from the McGill family, the dream of a larger Home was realized. On February 2, 1914 the second Home was finished with the capability to accommodate 100 Residents.
In 1973, plans were begun for yet another Home in order to meet new fire codes and other state and federal regulations. Based on our faith in Divine Providence and the generosity of countless friends and benefactors, construction soon began on a new 136,000 sq. ft. building named Sacred Heart Residence. We moved with the Residents into the new Home on January 28, 1976.
In 2001, we celebrated the centennial of our Home in Mobile with many activities, including a proclamation and new street sign from the Mayor adding the honorary name of “Jeanne Jugan Avenue” to McGill Avenue.
In 2005 disaster hit the Gulf Coast, accelerating the difficult decision to close our Home in New Orleans. Because of Hurricane Katrina, our Home in Mobile was blessed to receive the company of many of the Residents, employees, and Little Sisters from New Orleans, many of whom are still with us today.
Now, more than 100 years later, we continue to serve the elderly poor of the Gulf Coast in the same humble spirit of our foundress Saint Jeanne Jugan. We welcome your continuing support and prayers.
To learn more about our Congregation, visit our national website at www.littlesistersofthepoor.org.