10/30/2026
“Pulling out carpet, scraping woodwork, decorating, and taking cupboards apart for sanding and repainting.” Contractors? Do-it-yourselfers? Not in 1989. They were the dedicated women of the Altrusa Club who took on the project of providing a short-term haven for out-of-town chronic hospital patients and their families.
Club members originally proposed the project 5 years earlier, but finding the right property and overcoming zoning challenges delayed its start. The vision finally became a reality when St. Vincent Hospital offered the use of a 3-bedroom house at 1012 Porlier Street. Through the collaborative efforts of the Altrusa Club and St. Vincent Hospital, an Open House for the first Altrusa House was held in February 1990.
For patients and families facing a cancer diagnosis or serious illness, the warm, home-like setting provided a comforting alternative to the impersonal, isolated and often costly experience of staying in a hotel. Altrusa Club members personally led the remodeling, decorating and furnishing of the home. Once the House opened, St. Vincent coordinated guest placements and provided building and grounds maintenance, while Club members continued their volunteer service by preparing meals, doing laundry, and visiting with guests.
Over the next decade, the need for healthcare lodging continued to grow. That increasing demand inspired the planning and development of the facility that today stands at 1116 E. Mason Street. As we celebrate 25 years in our current home, our team is honored to carry forward the mission established by these remarkable women. We remain deeply grateful for their vision, dedication, perseverance, and selfless commitment to serving others. Even now, they remain connected to the House, faithfully supporting our mission and providing meals each month for our guests.
