Jeanne Jugan Residence, located in San Pedro, has deep roots in the mission of providing compassionate care to the elderly, a tradition that began in Los Angeles in the early 20th century. The journey started on January 18, 1905, when the first members of the community arrived in Los Angeles, quickly establishing a home to welcome and shelter elderly individuals in need. The dedication and growth of the community is reflected in the rapid expansion that followed; by July of their founding year, land at First and Mott Streets was secured and plans set in motion for a purpose-built facility. This vision materialized with the blessing of the cornerstone for St. Ann’s Home for the Aged in 1906, and the official inauguration of the new home on March 25, 1908.
For more than seventy years, St. Ann’s Home provided a haven of care and dignity for the aged in Los Angeles. However, changes in building safety standards eventually led to the decision in September 1976 to close the original home. Upholding a continued commitment to the well-being of their residents, the community acquired the grounds of the former Fermin Lasuen High School, which had closed in 1971, as the site for a new and modern facility. The groundbreaking ceremony for the new home was held on October 26, 1977, marking the beginning of a new chapter. On August 7, 1979, the heartfelt transition took place as the residents of St. Ann’s Home were welcomed into their new residence in San Pedro—a move that combined a sense of nostalgia with hope for the future.
Jeanne Jugan Residence stands today as a testament to over a century of dedicated service, inspired by the guiding spirit of its founders. The home is named in honor of its foundress, whose words—“Never forget that the poor are Our Lord”—continue to animate the mission and daily life at the residence. Throughout its history, the sense of community and joyfulness in serving others has remained unwavering, making Jeanne Jugan Residence a special place where elderly residents are cared for with dignity, compassion, and respect. Contributions and bequests, integral to sustaining this mission, are deeply valued as they help the residence continue offering shelter and support to those in need for generations to come.