About Us
Caring for those in need while promoting human development, collaboration, and the elimination of poverty and injustice. We strive to empower those served to transform their lives in the spirit of God’s love and compassion
Our Mission & History
Catholic Charities of Onondaga County helps people in need regardless of their religion, race, ethnicity, or nationality. We help thousands of our neighbors each year through all ages and stages of life. We believe that all people have infinite value and are worthy of our respect and compassion. Above all, we are committed to creating hope and transforming lives.
Our History
A Legacy of Love
Catholic Charities of Onondaga County was founded in 1923 under the vision of Bishop Daniel Curley, who believed in empowering people to help those beyond their own parish communities. He dreamed of an organization that would provide basic necessities, keep families together, support children in reaching their full potential, and advocate for justice.
Over the past century, Catholic Charities has grown from a parish-based effort into one of the region’s leading human services agencies. While our scope has expanded, our mission remains rooted in compassion, dignity, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.
The House of Providence
Located on Syracuse’s west side, the House of Providence serves as our headquarters. The original House was founded in 1872 by the Daughters of Charity to care for orphaned and homeless boys. It housed up to 300 children in its early years before being destroyed by fire in 1907. In 1908, Bishop Ludden laid the cornerstone of the new House at 1654 West Onondaga Street, completed in 1910.
By the 1950s, the House began serving both boys and girls after merging with St. Vincent’s Orphan Asylum, eventually transitioning away from orphanage services in the 1970s.
St. Vincent’s Orphan Asylum
St. Vincent’s was established in 1857 as a home for orphaned and homeless girls. It operated in downtown Syracuse until 1948, when it closed and merged with the House of Providence. The building no longer stands, but its legacy continues in the mission we carry forward today.
Records Request
Adoption Records
Catholic Charities of Onondaga County facilitated adoptions until the early 2000s. Access to these records is restricted. To obtain this information, you must contact the New York State Department of Health Adoption Information Registry at 518-474-9600 or visit their website.
House of Providence or St. Vincent’s Records
Archived records from these institutions are housed at the House of Providence. Please note that:
- Records are incomplete due to the 1907 fire and earlier file removal policies.
- Only former residents or their direct descendants may request or view information.
- We do not house records from other Catholic orphanages.
To make a request for House of Providence and St. Vincent Orphan Asylum resident records, please email us with the subject line “Records Request” at info@ccoc.us.
Your email must contain the following information in order to be processed:
- Your first and last name
- Your mailing address
- Your phone number
- Name of the individual on record
- Your relationship to that individual
- Birthdate of the individual
- Details about the information you are requesting
If we have the information on file, you will be asked to mail or email proof of your identity and the relationship in order to view or receive copies of the file. For questions or concerns, please call 315-424-1800.
6186
Individuals served at our Food Pantries
350
Adult Health Home participants served
761
Total refugees resettled
100%
Of four-year-olds began Kindergarten ready to learn