Every child deserves safety and love. If you or someone you know suspects abuse, report it here.

History

Since 1849, St. Joe’s has provided a safe and loving home to over 75,000 children.

1832

The Louisville cholera epidemic of 1832 left many children orphaned and without support.

1849

Recognizing the grave need to care for these children, a local group of German-American Catholics formed St. Joseph Catholic Orphan Society in 1849.

Nun with toddler girl
Nun with children at St. Joseph Children's Home

1850

The Society built its first home in 1850.

1885

Increasing numbers of children needing care prompted several locations before settling at the present site in Crescent Hill in 1885.

1865-1897

Notre Dame Sisters from Milwaukee administered the Home from 1865 – 1897.

1897-1972

The Ursuline Sisters of Louisville became administrators and staffed the home from 1897 until 1972.

1972-present

Since then, St. Joe’s continues to serve children, but under individual administrators hired by the Society’s Board of Trustees.

St. Joe’s Alumni

Contact us to get reconnected or to tell us about your experiences living at St. Joe’s.