Supporting Sister José Women’s Center: Insights from Founder Jean Fedigan
Altrusa Tucson’s November service focus centered on supporting Sister José Women’s Center, an organization that plays a critical
role in protecting and empowering women experiencing homelessness. As part of this focus, members gathered clothing and essential items throughout November. The following month, at our November meeting, founder and executive director
Jean Fedigan, founder and executive director, joined us, at our November meeting, to share firsthand updates about the center’s growth, impact, and mission.
Jean’s presentation offered a powerful look at the realities facing women in Southern Arizona. Pima County has experienced a sharp rise in homelessness over the past several years — a 60 percent increase between 2018 and 2023. Women represent a growing share of this population, with the most recent point-in-time count identifying 685 women experiencing homelessness across the region.
Sister José Women’s Center has responded to these challenges with compassion and innovation. What began in 2009 as a modest effort has grown into one of Tucson’s most trusted support centers for homeless women. Today, the organization provides:
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Day and overnight services for up to 120 women each day
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More than 13,000 safe sleeps per year
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Fresh meals, showers, clean restrooms, and laundry access
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Case management and help securing stable housing, healthcare, and employment
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A pet-friendly environment, including crates and safety accommodations
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A respectful, non-religious, nonjudgmental space for all women
Jean also shared updates about the center’s expansion. Sister José Women’s Center is adding confidential provider meeting rooms, a multi-use room for classes and programming, and a larger dining room and kitchen. These additions will allow them to serve even more women with dignity and consistency, especially during the busiest winter months.
Financial reports show a strong foundation for continued service, with $2.7 million in annual revenue and $1.85 million in expenses, demonstrating strong management and solid support from donors, community partners, and volunteers.
Our club’s involvement in October — and the deeper understanding gained through Jean’s November presentation — reinforces why this work matters. Sister José’s mission reflects values that resonate deeply with Altrusa: literacy, leadership, compassion, and service to our community.
To learn more about Sister José Women’s Center or join us in supporting them, visit sisterjose.org.