Who We Are
Our History
Four decades of compassion, dedication, and transforming lives in Los Angeles
Good Shepherd Center was founded over 40 years ago to provide housing, education, and support services in East Los Angeles. In 1984, under the direction of Sister Julia Mary Farley and under the auspices of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Good Shepherd Center became a place of compassion, hope, and shelter for homeless women.
We have maintained our tradition of welcoming women in crisis, while expanding to serve homeless families and working to build long-term solutions that will end homelessness for women and children.
Under the visionary leadership of Sister Julia Mary Farley and the auspices of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Good Shepherd Center was established as a sanctuary for homeless women in East Los Angeles.
Just 8 years after our founding, Good Shepherd Center expanded to include homeless families with children and launched the Mobile Outreach Program.
The Mobile Outreach Program brought essential supplies, food, and support directly to women living on the streets of Los Angeles, meeting them where they were.
We opened Hawkes Transitional Residence, providing long-term housing for 30 women with intensive case management, mental health support, and job training to help them achieve lasting independence.
Angel Guardian Home opened with 12 apartments specifically designed for disabled mothers and their children, providing accessible housing and comprehensive support services tailored to their unique needs.
In honor of our founder, Farley House opened as a permanent supportive housing community with 21 one-bedroom apartments.
This facility provides stable, long-term housing with on-site support services for women who have experienced chronic homelessness and face ongoing challenges to maintaining housing.
Good Shepherd Center now serves over 1,500 women and children annually through our comprehensive programs. Every night, we provide safe shelter for 93 women and more than 50 children.
Sister Julia Mary Farley's vision continues to guide our mission
Sister Julia Mary Farley
Founder, 1984
In 1984, Sister Julia Mary Farley recognized the growing crisis of homelessness among women in East Los Angeles. With unwavering compassion and determination, she established Good Shepherd Center as a beacon of hope for women who had nowhere else to turn.
Her vision extended beyond providing temporary shelter—she believed in creating comprehensive programs that would empower women to rebuild their lives with dignity and achieve lasting independence.
Today, Farley House stands as a living tribute to her legacy, continuing to provide hope and transformation to women and children across Los Angeles.
For over 40 years, Good Shepherd Center has been transforming lives. Join us in continuing this legacy of compassion and hope.