St. Mary’s Home To Phase Out Residential Care


St. Mary’s Home in Savannah, an institution for children since 1875, will phase out its residential program by June 30.

Changes in federal and state laws governing child care agencies have reduced placement of children in the home and funding, making continued residential services not feasible. Currently there are seven children living at St. Mary’s, which is an institution of the Catholic Diocese of Savannah, staffed by the religious Sisters of Mercy.

The Sisters will work with family members and caseworkers to ensure placement of the children before the end of June. The Sisters will also work with staff members, both full and part time, who number 17, to help them find other employment. A celebration will be held at St. Mary’s, at 2170 East Victory Drive, this summer to thank the Sisters of Mercy and other staff, donors and others who have supported the home. Invitations will be sent to all former residents of St. Mary’s. A date has not yet been set.

“There is great sadness in the announcement of the phasing out of residential services at St. Mary’s Home,” said Savannah Bishop J. Kevin Boland. We are all conscious of the superb service done by the Church and St. Mary’s Home in particular on behalf of children”.

The whole spirit of what was accomplished is embodied in the name Saint Mary’s Home. It truly was a home of warmth and an embrace of those in dire need of care and love.


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