Who are we

The Little Sisters of the Poor were founded in Brittany, France by Blessed Jeanne Jugan. Jeanne discoverd a blind paralyzed old woman who had been abandoned. Jeanne took her in her arms, brought her home and placed her in her own bed. Another old woman would follow, then a third . . . the Congregation of the Little Sisters of the Poor was born.

When Jeanne Jugan died on August 29, 1879, there were already 2,400 Little Sisters of the Poor caring for the elderly in nine countries. Today, in over 30 countries around the world, we continue the work begun by Jeanne Jugan by serving the elderly of the human family.

Jeanne often told the young Sisters, “Making the elderly happy, that is what counts.” Today we strive to live out these words of our foundress with the help of many collaborators and friends.

The Little Sisters came to Minnesota in 1883 at the request of Bishops Thomas Grace and John Ireland. 125 years later, the Little Sisters have cared for thousands of Minnesota's elderly poor. Today at Holy Family Residence in St. Paul, they continue their mission of hospitality by welcoming the elderly poor, making them happy, caring for them until death.

Visit our Website Holy Family Residence