The Little Sisters of the Poor began caring for the needy aged in Chicago in 1876. The original Home on Sheffield Avenue was rebuilt in 1980, as St. Mary's Home, on the former property of the Alexian Brothers Hospital on Belden and Lakewood Avenues. The following year, a five story apartment building was constructed on the corners of Racine and Belden. The area's many aged persons enthusiastically welcomed the new Senior Center.

Throughout the years, the work of the Little Sisters of the Poor has been abundantly blessed. Whenever St. Mary's has faced a major crisis, we have felt the special graces of our patron, St. Joseph. A major benefactor has inevitably come forward at just the right moment to help us maintain and advance our work. Currently, the Home is licensed for 76 nursing beds; 58 persons live in the independent living apartments and 25 seniors are registered in the Day Center.

Despite many recent demographic changes in the neighborhood, the Little Sisters of the Poor of Chicago are still able to respond to the concerns of the needy aged today. The generosity of the Benefactors continues to assist the Sisters in carrying out their mission of hospitality.