For the last three school years, about 25 juniors at Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School have gathered with Mercy Circle residents in Chicago to collaborate on various projects. Some residents were teachers or administrators at the school while others have granddaughters or nieces who attend the school. Initially, the group met to share their points of view on topics such as nonviolence, women's rights and immigration informed by their personal experience. In time, the discussion group's mission evolved to adopt Pat's Pantry, a food pantry serving families in Chicago's Mount Greenwood neighborhood where the school and the senior living community are located.
Now every third Thursday of the month during the school year, Mac with Mercy, comprised of members from various McAuley clubs and Mercy Circle residents, meets to create something special for the three dozen families served every week by Pat's
Pantry. Projects range from planting an herb garden to place on a windowsill to assembling ingredients in mason jars and wrapping gifts placed on a pie tin so families can make and enjoy a special dessert for holiday celebrations.
Senior Housing Notes | Vicki Martinka Petersen | Columnist