Inspired by St. Francis and the Franciscan Charism, the Port Ministries mission is to provide the fundamental needs of the mind, body, and spirit. The organization addresses these needs through a series of programs and services that holistically work together to serve the under-resourced and under-served residents of the local communities (Back of the Yards, Englewood, Gage Park) of Chicago. Including our Bread Truck program that feeds the community 6 days out of the week by driving around to 12 different locations throughout the community. A free health clinic opened to anyone despite insurance status. Free after school programing 4 days a week and a summer program for youth.
No one envisioned the rich network of ministries that would develop when Father Augustin Milon, OFM, founded a one-room soup kitchen in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood on May 26, 1985. In a neighborhood stricken by violence, homelessness, drug abuse, gang activity and abandoned buildings, Port Ministries has listened and responded to the pressing needs of the local community with a spirit of loving outreach.