The Sarah A. Reed Retirement Center is an outgrowth of Erie's first social service agency, which was founded in 1871 by a group of 30 Erie women. Known at the time as "The Home for the Friendless," it fulfilled its purpose by providing care and shelter to the unfortunate of all ages.

By 1890, separate buildings housed the children and adults, marking what was to become a complete division of services. As other agencies developed, the Home’s services were adjusted to meet the changing needs and demands within the community. In 1961, the Children’s Center moved to a new location where treatment could be provided for children with serious emotional, social, learning and behavioral problems. In 1986, the two centers were incorporated as separate, private nonprofit organizations.

The name Sarah A. Reed Home was adopted in 1936 to honor a founder who served on the volunteer Board of Directors for 45 years.

Today, The Center comprises three connecting buildings: Reed Manor, Reed Terrace and Reed House. 

Reed Manor contains Residential Living Apartments along with an indoor garage for those who own a vehicle. 

Reed Terrace houses all the Personal Care/Assisted Living residents along with the facility’s dining rooms, the library and several lounges.  Also, Reed Terrace offers residents and family members access to The Center’s private outdoor patio.  In addition, the ground floor of Reed Terrace also houses the Memory Support Unit, known as Zurn Pavilion, which contains private rooms, its own lounge, dining area and outdoor patio. 

Reed House includes all the Skilled and Intermediate Care Units and is staffed with 24-hour professional nursing care.