History & Heritage
A Century Behind Us.
A Stronger Future Ahead.
For more than 100 years, Marillac Saint Vincent has walked alongside Chicago families and children. That story is rooted in two historic ministries founded by the Daughters of Charity on Chicago’s West and North Sides.
Established in 1914 and 1915, these centers were created to meet the urgent needs of working families, immigrant communities, children, and seniors through childcare, education, outreach, and practical daily support.
As Chicago changed, so did the work.
Programs expanded, facilities grew, and services evolved in direct response to the needs of each generation. In 2002, these two long-standing ministries formally united as one organization, strengthening a shared mission that continues to serve thousands across Chicago today.
Rooted in the
Vincentian Tradition
Marillac Saint Vincent carries forward a mission first shaped nearly 400 years ago by St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac.
Together, they believed service to those in poverty required more than temporary relief. It required dignity, compassion, education, and long-term opportunity. Through the founding of the Daughters of Charity in 1633, they created a model of practical care that would spread across the world and eventually take root in Chicago.
That same Vincentian spirit still defines Marillac Saint Vincent today: meet immediate needs while building lasting pathways to well-being, stability, and hope.
Still Moving Forward
The work of Marillac Saint Vincent has never been about standing still.
For more than a century, this organization has responded to the changing realities facing Chicago families by adapting services, expanding programs, and creating new opportunities for children, parents, and older adults to thrive.
Today, that mission lives on through early childhood education, youth development, community outreach, food access, family support services, and programs that continue to strengthen lives across Chicago.
History shaped who we are. Mission moves us forward.
A Timeline of Service
Today:
Marillac Saint Vincent continues serving thousands across Chicago each year.
2002:
Two historic ministries unite as one organization.
1947:
Marillac Social Center is formally established.
1915:
DePaul Day Nursery and Settlement House opens on Chicago’s North Side.
1881:
St. Vincent’s early child welfare ministry begins in Chicago.
The Story Continues
More than a century later, Marillac Saint Vincent remains committed to the same calling that shaped its beginnings: walking alongside Chicago families with compassion, support, and opportunity.
As we honor the legacy that brought us here, we are also building what comes next, creating new spaces, stronger connections, and expanded opportunities for the communities we serve.
The next chapter of this mission is already underway.
Click below to explore The Next Chapter.