After an 8-hour van ride, our ASB team entered the Windy City at 5pm. Going into west Chicago, we were able to see that we are not in Knoxville anymore. Buildings were more run down, and there was an overwhelming amount of litter everywhere. Right off the bat, we were exposed to the community that we will be serving this week. We arrived at The Mission of Our Ladies of the Angels, which is the place we are staying in and working alongside. Sister Stephanie, our awesome host, showed us to our rooms. We are so lucky to be staying here, as the place we are staying at is exceptionally well-kept compared to the neighborhood (pictures attached!), and definitely more than accommodating. Then, Sister Stephanie talked to us about the history of the mission. The history is very inspirational, as it was established to help a community that has been dealing with poverty for over 50 years.
After she showed us the amenities of the building we are staying in, we got to see the other facilities that are available to the community. The Mission partners with the YMCA to provide both an after-school program, and a senior citizen outreach. Sister Stephanie was telling us that before the mission was established, people did not leave their houses because of the high crime rate. However, now the mission provides a safe place for the community to get together and support each other. The mission is a huge help to the community, as they have services ranging from tutoring kids, to computer classes for the elderly, to a food pantry and community meals. We are so excited to see what this week has in store for us, and can't wait to get started!
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