Our amazing story began over 350 years ago at Chatillon-les-dombes in the Diocese of Lyon, France. Inspired by the vision of Vincent de Paul and with the help of St. Louise de Marillac, the first Ladies of Charity association was established in 1617 for the purpose of serving the sick and needy. Realizing the great need, many women joined in the volunteer effort to attend to the needs of those oppressed by poverty and illness.

The first association of Ladies of Charity in the United States was formed in 1857 at St. Vincent de Paul Church, St. Louis, Missouri, by Catherine Harkins. In 1957 several associations met in St. Louis to celebrate the Centennial and decided there should be a national organization. In 1960 the Ladies of Charity of the United States of America (LCUSA) was formed.

Ladies of Charity have associations in 20 states and the District of Columbia. Internationally, they are in 49 countries and regions with 250,000 members worldwide.

Ladies of Charity of Metropolitan Kansas City was founded in 1952 from auxiliaries supporting St. Vincent’s Maternity Hospital and St. Anthony’s Baby Home.

Ladies of Charity of Metropolitan Kansas City has 501(c)3 status with the Internal Revenue Service. Contributions to Ladies of Charity are tax deductible.