Opening Doors: Notre Dame Housing and the Legacy of the Notre Dame Sisters

For nearly 175 years, the Notre Dame Sisters have faithfully answered the call to serve those in need. Their work has evolved over time, but their mission remains steadfast—responding to unmet needs with hope, determination, and faith. This Catholic Sisters Week, we celebrate one of their most impactful ministries: Notre Dame Housing (NDH). #LikeaCatholicSister

In 1974, Notre Dame Academy, which had educated young women for 49 years, merged with Archbishop Rummel High School to form what is now Roncalli Catholic High School. The closing of the Academy marked the end of one chapter, but the Sisters remained faithful to their mission, open to where God would lead them next.

After years of using the Academy building for retreats and community programs, the Sisters discerned a new, urgent need in Omaha—affordable housing for seniors. With a growing population of older adults facing housing instability and social isolation, they saw an opportunity to create something transformative. In 1997, the Sisters established Notre Dame Housing, turning their former Motherhouse into 62 units of affordable housing. Over the next decade, they expanded to a total of 125 units for seniors, ensuring that those in need had a safe, welcoming place to call home.

The Sisters believe that home is more than a roof over one’s head. NDH fosters a vibrant, supportive community by addressing food insecurity, promoting independence, and providing educational, cultural, and spiritual opportunities.

All resources, including the community food pantry at Notre Dame Housing, educational programming, health and welcomes programs, the fully equipped hair salon, and activities, are offered free of charge.

Notre Dame Housing is more than a visible project—it is an ongoing expression of the Sisters’ calling. Their faith led them from an educational ministry to a housing ministry, but the core of their mission remains the same: to respond with love, hope, and action to those in need.

As we celebrate Catholic Sisters Week, we honor the Notre Dame Sisters and their commitment to service. Through Notre Dame Housing, they continue to live their faith in powerful ways, ensuring that Omaha’s seniors have not only a home but a community where they can thrive.

#LikeaCatholicSister, the Notre Dame Sisters continue to build a future rooted in compassion, dignity, and faith.

We invite you to watch a short video about Notre Dame Housing: