Our History

A legacy of empowerment since 1903.

For more than 120 years, Crittenton has been a place of hope, healing, and new beginnings.

While our facilities, programs, and name have changed over the decades, our purpose has never wavered: helping people build safer, healthier, and more independent futures. More than 45,000 mothers and children have been served through that commitment—and our story is still being written

Historical black and white photo of a three-story building with a sign reading "The Florence Night Mission." People stand on multiple balconies and in front of the entrance, which has stairs leading up to it. The building is located in New York, as indicated by the caption. 
The Start

1883

The Florence Night Mission is founded in New York City by Charles Crittenton in memory of his daughter, Florence, who had died at the age of four. The Mission was a shelter for pregnant girls and women in need.

Logo with the words "Justice + Joy" in green and pink, and "National Collaborative" in black. 
NATIONAL ADVOCATES

1895

The National Florence Crittenton Mission was created to organize and establish new homes across the country. Today the mission is called Justice and Joy National Collaborative and continues to advocate for the rights of girls and women.

A vintage black and white photograph of a young girl with dark hair wearing a light-colored dress, a necklace, and a ring on her finger. She has a serious expression and is sitting with her hands on her lap.
A black-and-white photograph of a man with a mustache, dressed in a suit, sitting in an ornate wooden chair. 
A mission begins

1903

The Florence Crittenton Home in Charlotte is founded by Charles Crittenton and local civic and faith leaders to provide refuge and support for young women in need.

Black and white photo of a large, old, wooden house with a gabled roof, multiple chimneys, and a front porch with columns, surrounded by trees. 
A permanent home

1905

The first Florence Crittenton Home is built at 523 N. McDowell St., where services expand for the next 40+ years.

A large brick building with a white portico entrance and multiple windows, surrounded by trees and a curved brick pathway leading to the entrance, on a sunny day. 
Growth & Change

1946

Florence Crittenton moves to 1001 Blythe Blvd. (originally Memorial Drive), partnering with adoption agencies to support women choosing adoption plans.

A living room with vintage decor, two children watching TV, floral curtains, magazine rack, and a mural of a landscape on the wall. 
Breaking Barriers

1963

Florence Crittenton integrates, welcoming a diverse community of women and children.

Two women sitting on a bed in a bedroom with vintage furniture, white curtains, and a lamp. 
Pioneering Programs

1970s

Hunter House launches a mother-child residential program to continue supporting women after they give birth. Calkins Hall opens to support clients on their adoption journeys.

These programs are no longer active.

A black and white drawing of a residential complex with multiple buildings, trees, and pathways, viewed from above. 
A New Home for a New Era

1988

Florence Crittenton relocates to 1300 Blythe Blvd. Services expand to address complex issues like substance abuse, mental health, and parenting education. 

A large banquet hall filled with people seated at round tables during an event or conference. The room features high ceilings with wooden beams, large windows, and flags hanging on the wall. There is a stage at the front with a speaker, a large screen displaying a presentation, and a purple curtain backdrop. 
A Community at Work

1995

The Annual Luncheon, originally started as a friend-raiser, begins.

100 Years of Impact

2003

Sarah’s House Program begins, providing a safe home for teenage mothers in foster care. Named in honor of Sarah Belk Gambrell, a visionary philanthropist and longtime supporter of Florence Crittenton’s mission.

The Centennial Gala is held to celebrate 100 years of promoting Health & Hope.

Children playing on playground equipment near a large tree in a park, with a person watching and a train in the background. 
Expanded Support

2009

Aftercare Program, formerly known as PPEP (Prenatal Parenting Education Program) provides in-home support for new mothers transitioning to independent living.

Brick building with a white portico, surrounded by landscaped bushes and flowering trees. 
Empowering Independence

2010

Legacy Hall Program begins, helping young women in foster care develop life skills for adulthood

A cozy bedroom with two beds, one with a floral bedspread and the other with a blue bedspread, sharing a wooden nightstand with a lamp and plants. There are pillows, wall art, a window with blinds and a lamp, and warm lighting.
A cozy bedroom with two beds, one with a floral bedspread and the other with a blue bedspread, sharing a wooden nightstand with a lamp and plants. There are pillows, wall art, a window with blinds and a lamp, and warm lighting. 
A Milestone Year

2013

Crittenton celebrates 110 years of service.

The residential facility expands to serve 49 residents.

A modern, single-story building with large windows, a brick chimney, and a mix of gray siding and brick exterior, surrounded by a parking lot and green grass. 
A NEW CHAPTER

2020

Organization rebrands to Crittenton.

Crittenton builds and moves to a new, modern facility at 3350 Holabird Ln, off West Blvd.

Bright living room with large windows, beige sofas, a blue armchair, stone fireplace, and modern lighting fixtures. 
Securing the Future

2024

Crittenton purchases its land and building, ensuring a lasting impact for generations to come.

Over 45,000 mothers and children served.