May 2023 Newsletter

Deadly Fire in Immigrant Prison Leads Yennifer to Bethany House

While Mexican authorities continue to investigate the deadly fire in an immigrant detention center a few weeks ago, the families of those who died are trying to rebuild their lives.

Yennifer came to Bethany House with her two young daughters after her husband was killed in the fire. The family made a 7-month journey to reach the U.S., fleeing violence, kidnapping and threats in two different countries. They felt so close to reaching their goal at the U.S. border when her husband was placed in detention in Ciudad Juarez. A few days later he died in the fire which killed 37 immigrants and injured dozens more.

Yennifer was allowed to seek asylum in the U.S. as a young widow with two children to care for. The girls arrived too late to begin classes in school but are now registered for summer camp. Yennifer is, naturally, still grieving, as are her daughters. She feels keenly the responsibility to make a life for her daughters on her own in a new culture. We assure her she is not alone as we--with your help--seek to offer the support she needs to begin a new life.

Mother Cabrini

Legacy Award

In April Holy Name Cathedral awarded Bethany House the first Mother Cabrini Legacy Award. The award, created by our friend Dr. Carol Christiansen, challenges us to continue to carry on Mother Cabrini's legacy of caring for those most in need, especially the immigrant.

Frances Hesselbein Community Partnership Award

The Mutual of America Foundation awarded the Frances Hesselbein Community Partnership Award to Bethany House, Viator House and The Young Center for their collaboration in support of unaccompanied immigrant children (those who arrive at the border without parents or family). The Young Center provides Child Advocates who advocate for the children and help with placement when they turn 18. Bethany House (for women) and Viator House (for men) provide a home for those turning 18 who have no family or sponsors in the U.S.

Everything we do at Bethany House is possible because of YOU!

Our deepest gratitude especially to those who choose to remember birthdays and special events with a gift to Bethany House.

Elizabeth Domigan in honor of the birthday of Sister Patricia Crowley OSB

Kathy Gunnel in honor of the birthday of Meg Evans

Carolyn Cochran Kopel in honor of the birthday of Meg Evans

Would you like to become a mentor for a woman moving out on her own? Do you have time to share simply accompanying women (and children) at the house? Would you like to fix a meal or treat for our Bethany House family? Would you like to share a craft or art experience? Use our Contact Form to let us know!

Donations for food, personal items and household needs; transportation to and from school and work; and cell phones for safety and to maintain connections to family are always much needed and very much appreciated.

Monetary donations can be mailed to:

Bethany House of Hospitality

c/o Patricia Crowley OSB,

7430 N. Ridge Blvd.

Chicago, IL 60645

Online donations can be made through PayPal:

Donate to Bethany House

Gift Cards

Gift cards are always welcome for groceries or the women's personal needs. We frequently shop at Local Market Foods, Costco and Jewel. The women appreciate the opportunity for personalized selection at Ross, Amazon or Target.

Amazon Wish List

The Bethany House Wish List on Amazon includes personal and household items we regularly use.

Visit our Amazon Wish List

Bethany House Of Hospitality

Deadly Fire in Immigrant Prison Leads Yennifer to Bethany House

Mother Cabrini

﻿Legacy Award

Legacy Award