Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, Chicago

Dedicated staff members at Mercy Home for Boys & Girls strive to provide a true home for young people in their care. A venerable Chicago institution since 1887, Mercy Home has sheltered more than 25,000 youth who have suffered abuse, abandonment, the death of a parent, and other challenges. The organization provides around-the-clock care, setting expectations and schedules for youth ages 11 to 21.

Young people in the program are given lodging and meals and sent to school. They can work on homework during study time, and paint or sculpt during art therapy sessions. In addition to the residential program, Mercy Home provides lifelong support and resources such as therapy, scholarships, and career referral for former members after they age out of the program, along with academic support and one-on-one mentoring for other children in need.

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