Dear St. Mary’s Friends,
A group of approximately 60 displaced migrant youth between the ages of 11 and 17 are being cared for by Catholic Charities at Maryville in Des Plaines. The average stay at Maryville is about a month and there is a frequent turnover, as new kids arrive and others leave. The staff at Maryville would appreciate donations for these youth since they arrive with only a few items of clothing in a plastic bag.
I just wanted to personally thank you for the blessing you bestowed upon our group with the Spring baskets donation. Kurt told me that you were instrumental in getting the cleaning items together for the baskets. My clients were elated and so shocked that someone actually thought of them. I have 25 clients who were formerly homeless and have moved into apartments. Most clients feel forgotten or misunderstood because of their homelessness. As a program, we are one of the smallest here at Catholic Charities, with a very meager budget.
On February 8 more than 70 people, both parishioners and visitors, attended a lively presentation about refugees and how to help welcome them upon their arrival in the United States.
The discussion was led by Sue Horgan of Exodus World Service, a Christian advocacy group. Information about Exodus can be found here.
If you would like to be added to our Refugee Email list please let us know either via email parishadmin@stmaryspr.org or call us at 847-823-4126.
This email list will be used exclusively to communicate regarding issues relevant to welcoming refugees.