The Little Sisters of the Poor announced Tuesday that they will be withdrawing from the Jeanne Jugan Residence in San Pedro, where they have resided for the last four decades.
“As part of a strategic plan aimed at strengthening our ministry and the quality of our religious and community life, we Little Sisters have recognized the need to withdraw from a certain number of Homes in the United States, while at the same time dedicating our resources to much needed upgrades and reconstruction projects in others,” said Mother Maria Christine, lsp, provincial superior. She said the decision comes “after a lengthy period of prayer, much consultation, and the study of many factors.”
In letters to the residents and their family members, Mother Marguerite, lsp, superior of Jeanne Jugan Residence, offered residents the possibility of moving to another home sponsored by the Little Sisters of the Poor. “Know that if you wish to go to any of our other Homes so that you can continue to be part of the Little Sisters’ family, you will be welcomed with open arms.”
The order said it is actively seeking a buyer for the property, “with the hope of finding another mission-driven sponsor to continue operating the facility and allowing the Residents and staff to remain there.”
The Jeanne Jugan Residence has been open since 1979, when the Archdiocese of Los Angeles donated the former Fermin Lasuen High School to the Little Sisters. They used the facility to care for the elderly.
“For more than a century, the Little Sisters of the Poor have been witnesses of Jesus’ love for the poor and sick here in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles,” said Archbishop José H. Gomez. “I am grateful for their humble service and love for all these years and I am sad that they will be leaving. And I am praying that we can find alternatives to continue this vital mission of caring for the poor.”
