Since 1969
Our History
Seton Center has been providing services in greater Kansas City, Missouri for 55 years. Learn about our history and how Seton Center became what it is today and the people who started it all.
May the most just, the most high, and the most amiable will of God be accomplished forever.
- Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton


Sister Mathilde Comstock, D.C.
Founder of Seton Center
Under the direction of Sister Mathilde Comstock, D.C., Sister Rosella Molitor, D.C., Daughters of Charity, and the Ladies of Charity, Seton Neighborhood Services was founded on October 1, 1969. Sister Mathilde remained the Director until 1974.

1973:
Blessed Day Thrift Store is Born
Seton Center provides clothes to our neighbors in need through our newly named Thrift Store, Blessed Day. Today, Blessed Day continues to be led by the Ladies of Charity.
1973:
1974:
Elizabeth Ann Seton is Honored
Blessed Elizabeth Ann Seton is honored in stained glass at the National Shrine of the Immac, Washington, D.C. 1974 marks the bi-centennial anniversary of the birth of Mother Seton.
1974:
1975:
New Location & a New Name
On August 4, 1975, Seton Neighborhood Services moved from St. Vincent’s Rectory to its current location at 2816 E. 23rd St. and simplified its name to Seton Center.
1975:
1975:
The "Bussett"
The vehicle was purchased and used for transportation back and forth from Seton Center for elderly. It was purchased through a grant from the Carrie J. Loose Trust.
1975:
1984:
Senior Buddies Program
Seniors gather twice a week at Seton Center for fellowship, fun, and lunch.
1984:
1986:
Seton's Song
A song for Seton is born - to the melody of My Country Tis of Thee.
1986:
1995:
Seton Center High School Opens
The doors of Seton Center High School opened in 1995 to give students who had been unsuccessful in traditional schools another chance. Due to changes in Charter School regulations, the school closed in 2012.
1995:
1997:
Founder of Seton Center is Laid to Rest
Sister Mathilde Comstock, founder of Seton Center in Kansas City, is laid to rest in St. Louis, on October 23, 1997.
1997:
1997:
Expansion and Renovations Project
In the mid-1990’s, Seton Center became Seton Center Family and Health Services. In October 1997, the center celebrated the completion of a $1.3 million dollar expansion and renovations project, adding 3,500 square feet to its building, including a new Dental Services area.
1997:
2009:
Happy 40th Anniversary
Seton Center celebrated it’s 40th Anniversary.
2009:
2012:
Groundbreaking for New Construction
To better meet the needs of our clients, Seton Center raised significant funds through capital campaigns for renovations of the building on 23rd Street.
2012:
2013:
Welcome Friends
New Seton Center construction is completed.
2013:
2016:
Back to School Program
At the beginning of each school year, Seton Center’s Back to School Program provides neighborhood children with backpacks, school supplies, and underclothes. New and gently used school uniforms are also available.
2016:
2019:
50 Year Celebration
Mass and Celebration Dinner Honoring the Daughters and Ladies of Charity.
2019:
Present:
Seton Center Remains the Anchor
Seton Center remains the anchor of our community providing Social Services to over 4,000 neighbors and Dental Services to nearly 2,500 patients annually. Both the Daughters of Charity and the Ladies of Charity are actively involved in Seton. The Daughters of Charity provide financial support. The Ladies of Charity provide financial support and volunteer services.
Present: