Little Sisters of the Poor Jeanne Jugan Center

Their work started in 1882 when six Little Sisters made the trip to Kansas City to open their first Home. They opened St. Alexis Home for the Aged in a building at 31st & Locust that was originally built to house widows and orphans of the Civil War’s Confederate soldiers. They lived and served at that location until 1923. When an expansion of Gillham Trafficway forced them to relocate, the Little Sisters purchased land at 53rd & Highland to build a second St. Alexis Home. In May of 1922, Bishop Thomas Lillis led a great procession of 3,500 people to bless and lay the cornerstone for the new building. It was one of the largest Catholic parades ever held in Kansas City! Construction was completed in December of 1923, and for the next 60 years, hundreds of aged men and women called that building “home.” By 1982, the Little Sisters of the Poor needed to build a new, more modern, functional Home that met the changing Federal and State regulations. With the help of many generous benefactors, our current Home, Jeanne Jugan Center, opened at 8745 James A. Reed Road in 1987 and was designed around the many special needs of the elderly. It is such a joy to hear stories from people who remember dropping off donations or volunteering at the old Home on Highland; or to talk to those who played in the neighborhood as children, and have stories of the Little Sisters and Residents there. What a wonderful city this is to call home.

Philosophy of loving care. As Little Sisters of the Poor we care for the elderly poor in the spirit of humble service we have received from our foundress, Saint Jeanne Jugan. We welcome the elderly as we would Jesus Christ himself and serve them with love and respect until death. WE STRIVE TO: Provide a home for those 60 years of age and older who, because of declining health and/or resources, need a helping hand. Respect the dignity of each person in our care and cherish him or her as a fellow child of God, regardless of race or religion. Care for the “whole person” with quality health care, safe and comfortable surroundings, spiritual support and enjoyable activities. Accept death as a natural part of life, and accompany those on their final journey in a pain controlled, supportive atmosphere - ensuring no one dies alone. Share our mission with our extended family of staff, volunteers, benefactors and Residents’ family members to form a community-supported home. Live our belief that all life has value – regardless of age or financial status