PICO-UNION : Jessie’s Place Gives Kids a Place to Belong

Inside a small storefront office on 11th Street, neighborhood children can watch educational videos, play and draw in an informal after-school program set up by volunteers.

The program and space is called Jessie’s Place. It was founded by Jessica McCall, but it’s not named for her.

“I wanted to personalize the program so I picked a name that wasn’t male or female,” said McCall, who previously ran a sober-living home in the Pico-Union district and has been involved in a variety of volunteer activities.

“It sounds like a name for a neighborhood diner or bar. I kind of like that feeling, you know, where you stop in to say ‘Hi,’ and everyone cares what happens to you,” McCall said. “It’s important to be open and let it flow and let the kids tell us what’s important to them.”

The space at 1801 W. 11th St. is on loan from the Pico-Union Housing Corp. The corporation’s staff volunteer their time. The center, which is intended for children 4 to 14 years old, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and until 2 p.m. Saturday.

“The main idea is to divert their attention from the street,” resource director Tino Lian said. “We can provide supervision and a sense of belonging.”

The center is planning outings with parents, art and music workshops and guest speakers, McCall said.

Information: (213) 251-7198.