Mission Statement: Provide quality holistic care for children who for justified reason cannot stay their family home.
The Congregation of Sisters of the SACRED HEART CHILDREN’S HOME has been in existence since April 25, 1907. Our Congregation known as “SERVANTS OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS AND OF THE POOR” was founded by St. Jose Maria de Yermo y Parres in Leon, Gto., Mexico in 1885.
The first home was established in Leon, Gto. Mexico; its main purpose was to serve the poorest, the most in need. On April 1907, Sacred Heart Orphanage for girls only, was the first home built in the United States (Laredo, Texas). Around the 1930’s, an orphanage for boys “Saint Joseph Orphanage” was established on Water Street. Around 1961, a campaign was started for the construction of a new Home site. On April 25, 1965, the construction of Sacred Heart Children’s Home was completed. Its capacity is for 80 children: boys, 5 through 10 years of age, girls, 5 years of age until they finish high school and 16 religious sisters.
The home has a current license from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services; and it is the only Catholic children’s home in the Diocese of Laredo. The majority of the children are residents of Webb county and surrounding areas. Its main purpose is to provide a home for children who for some justified reason can’t stay at their family home, children who lost both parents or one parent by death or divorce; those whose parents cannot provide for their basic needs; and those who have been abused, neglected, or rejected.
Our Mission to serve children holistically has been possible through the vital collaboration of the United Way, the community of Laredo, and foundations, such as Lamar Bruni Vergara Foundation that has assisted us since 2004. In 2004, we were able to build an educational center. Monies received in 2008 were used to renovate all the roofs at the Home; from 2011 to the present, Lamar Bruni Vergara Foundation has funded our Educational Pilot Program.
Your collaboration is vital in the extension of our objective to serve children through an integrated human and Christian promotion reducing or eliminating homelessness, hunger, neglect, and abuse. Your unconditional contribution has made it possible for Sacred Heart Children’s Home to provided hope and a brighter tomorrow for the less fortunate. Thank You!