CHICAGO—State Senator Natalie Toro celebrated the ribbon cutting ceremony of Maryville’s St. Catherine of Siena—a new facility to serve youth in care with complex medical needs in the district she represents that was made possible through funding secured in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget.

“All children deserve high-quality health care—especially when they are experiencing complex and intense symptoms,” said Toro (D-Chicago). “Continued investments will ensure more young people can access lifesaving care, and be set up for success in the future.”

The temporary housing program will serve up to 10 youth in care who are ready to be discharged from intensive medical facilities but are still in need of transitional care due to their complex medical needs.

The new facility, located at 2608 W. Addison, will provide a safe and supportive environment for up to 10 youth in care from birth to age 21. Located at a former day care, the facility will have close proximity to schools, hospitals and health care providers that will be utilized by the youth, as well as its ease of access to multiple modes of public transportation for families to maintain regular visits. The building’s single floor layout will provide ample space to supervise and care for youth in a warm, inviting and homelike environment.

The $1 million construction project was funded through the Illinois DCFS capital development program—supported by Toro and Senate Democrats. The department will invest $4 million per year to pay for the cost of room and board, specialized nursing care, case management services and transportation. Within the next three months, DCFS will have an additional 40 new beds available to youth in Cook County, for a total investment of $3.65 million through the DCFS capital development grants.

Once the new facility is operational, Maryville’s multi-disciplinary team will care for the children’s emotional, physical and mental health needs while preparing them to live in the community and connect caregivers to services and medical training to ensure the youth’s transition to a specialized foster home is successful.

“As a former teacher, I have made a lifelong commitment to set the next generation up for success through my work,” said Toro. “Similarly, the staff at Maryville work diligently to support these children through the difficulties they are experiencing, both physically and mentally. I am grateful for their work to support our youngest Illinoisans through their most vulnerable moments.”    

The St. Catherine of Siena Program is scheduled to officially open and accept the first youth in care in November.