SALUTE TO THE OUASOUICENTENNIAL OF MERCY HOME
WHEREAS, In 1887, the Reverend Louis Campbell, responding to Chicago Archbishop Patrick Feehan's concerns, established rooms on LaSalle St. above a Catholic library in the shadows of the Board of Trade Building intended "to care for the spiritual and temporal welfare of homeless and friendless working boys and waifs." Shortly thereafter, Father Campbell's project became incorporated under the aegis of the Mission of Our Lady of Mercy; and
WHEREAS, In 1889, Father Campbell became ill and his endeavor was taken over by the original proposer of the plan, Father Dennis Mahoney, who raised a modest down payment to purchase a private residence for the boys at what is now 1140 W. Jackson Boulevard and has been and is now Mercy Home's headquarters; and
WHEREAS, On the morning of Sunday. September 30. 2012, an event in celebration of the 125lh Anniversary of Mercy Home for Boys & Girls will take place in Chicago to further its mission of saving young lives through the provision of a safe and nurturing home as well as an opportunity for an excellent education and the means for personal growth. Furthermore, Mercy Homes provides support for families and remains as committed to raising public awareness of youth in need as it was 125 years ago; and
WHEREAS, The Honorable Robert W. Fioretti, Alderman ofthe 2nd Ward has apprised this august body of the quasquicentennial of this venerable eleemosynary institution; now therefore
BE IT RESOLVED That we, the Mayor and members of the City of Chicago City Council, gathered together this 3rd Day of October, 2012 AD, do hereby salute the 125th anniversary of Mercy Home for Boys & Girls and express our everlasting gratitude for the remarkable work they do.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED That a suitable copy of this resolution be prepared and presented to Father Scott Donahue of the Mercy Home for Boys & Girls.