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The City of Chicago has announced that it awarded Saint Leonard’s Ministries $4.68 million in resources to support the expansion of campus residences that will create all single units with modern amenities.

The grant is the largest award in the 71-year history of our organization. Read the city press release here. You can also watch the press conference, which Saint Leonard’s was honored to host, here.

“This is a pivotal step in our renovation project that lets us take the vision from a plan to a reality,” said Executive Director Zack Schrantz. “I want to thank the City of Chicago for investing in people who deserve dignity and respect, and this helps bring our buildings to the level that residents need and deserve.”

“And none of this would be possible without the support of the Saint Leonard’s community that has already stepped up with scores of individual donations for this project,” Schrantz said.

The total cost of the campus expansion and upgrades will exceed $10 million.

Rendering of the Saint Leonard's courtyard

When complete:

*The two buildings of Saint Leonard’s House on Warren Boulevard will gain more capacity and privacy by increasing from 36 beds in multiple-size rooms to 41 single bedrooms. This will bring the buildings in line with the resident experience at Saint Andrew’s Court.


*Grace House on Adams Street will increase from 16 beds in multiple-size rooms to 17 single bedrooms.

*The campus will receive upgrades that will allow for more ADA accessibility, new HVAC systems with much-needed air conditioning and cosmetic improvements throughout. Saint Leonard’s will continue to raise funds to create a new dining hall and wellness center.

To support the logistics of the project, a new building that was acquired and renovated at 2124 W. Warren Blvd. will provide space for residents to live during construction. When those residents can return to Saint Leonard’s House and Grace House after renovations are complete, the 2124 Building will provide space for 12 residents.

We will continue to seek public and private funds to do more for this community, and we look forward to inviting you to a groundbreaking ceremony when construction begins. Thank you for walking with us on this journey.

For news coverage of this wonderful day, visit these links on Block Club Chicago,  the Chicago Tribune, and Fox-32.