The History of JCSO

For More Than 100 Years…

JCSO was founded in Hartford, Connecticut in 1917 as the Hebrew Ladies Orphan Asylum, on Wooster Street in Hartford, to assist Jewish children who were orphaned or indigent.

In 1919, the organization became known as the Hebrew Home for Children, located on Fairfield Avenue. Between 1928 and 1949, the Hebrew Home for Children was located on Blue Hills Avenue. In 1950, the Hebrew Home for Children closed, and the organization became the Jewish Children’s Service Organization.

Over the years, families in need have changed, but the requests for help for their children’s well-being continues. Unfortunately, there are still Jewish families who require financial help to provide for their children. With your help, JCSO can continue to respond.

The Latest Chapter…

JCSO has established new partnerships with the Jewish Community Foundation and Jewish Family Services, and updated by-laws to effectuate the new relationships.

The Jewish Community Foundation will oversee all JCSO funds going forward, and Jewish Family Services will provide direct services to JCSO children and families.

These new relationships will provide the means for JCSO to continue fulfilling its mission, building a future on the foundation that has served the community well through the years, with the tremendous voluntary efforts of dedicated board members and volunteers.

Please note: The JCSO history scrapbook was completed prior to the establishment of the new partnerships in 2025.