Throughout the last several weeks, Mercy Housing Lakefront children celebrated the start of the new school year. Back-to-School events were held at the Austin After-School Program, Wentworth Commons, Pullman Wheelworks Apartments, 850 Eastwood Apartments and Roseland Village.

U.S. Bank helped kick off the back-to-school celebrations at Mercy’s Pullman Wheelworks property. The bank donated 180 backpacks and school supplies for students from kindergarten to high school.  Bank volunteers pitched in to pack and distribute the backpacks and serve cake and juice to everyone in attendance.

“The U.S. Bank team had a great time meeting with the children, their parents and the staff at Pullman Wheelworks,” said Robert McGhee, Vice President and Community Affairs Manager. “We’re happy to help the students get the school year off to a great start. U.S. Bank is committed to the Chicago community and Pullman Wheelworks.”

The children also received books from a local organization, Bernie’s Books, at the celebratory event.

Linden, LLC also helped families with back-to-school preparations. The firm outfitted 30 children who attend the Austin after-school program with school supplies.  The firm and its employees have committed to participating in Mercy’s Adopt-a-Building program and have adopted the Austin property.  Employees are thrilled to help support the families who reside in Austin, and are already excited to begin preparations for an upcoming Holiday Party in December as part of the program.