Celebrating An Amazing Young Migrant! - In September 2023, the Scalabrini Missionary community found the P family sleeping in a car in their parish in Melrose Park. They had left Venezuela many months before and made the very difficult journey to the United States eventually making their way to Chicago. The Scalabrinis contacted the Migrant Ministry to see if we could help this family of five.

We were able to resettle the family in an apartment in Oak Park and the oldest child, 12 year-old A, enrolled in 7th grade at Julian Middle School. He spoke no English and was behind in his studies because of the long journey to the United States and the failing educational system in Venezuela.

He worked hard and overcame these hurdles. In two years, he mastered English and managed to meet all the requirements for graduation. Family and faculty were so proud of A as he crossed the stage recently in his graduation gown and stole bearing images of both the American and Venezuelan flags.

In light of the current political situation, we decided against publishing a photo of A and revealing the family’s names, although they are here legally as asylum seekers. ¡Bien hecho, A!

More good news! The National Catholic Reporter recently ran a feature on us. Chicago seniors mentor migrants amid deportation threats. Yay! A parish in Oregon has already contacted us for guidance in initiating a similar ministry.

Our work would not be possible without the volunteers and your generous donations. We have moved from Amazon to DreamList.

Please continue to pray for our beloved migrant brothers and sisters.