The Missionaries of Charity run a home for unwed mothers in Chicago – the Tribune reports:

But the Missionaries of Charity home in Chicago doesn’t take any federal or church aid.

"The sisters have faith that donations will come in," Kurey said.

Amazingly–as the home does not advertise with pamphlets, fliers or a Web page–donations do come in, allowing the sisters to care for eight to 10 women at a time.

Since the home opened in December 2005, 40 women have stayed there for varying lengths of time. Eleven babies have been born to women residing at the home; other mothers were able to return safely to their families before their children were born.

So far, none of the women has put her baby up for adoption, though that is an option.

For the nuns, ministering comes in the form of warm smiles, homemade meals and a willingness to listen. There is no formal counseling at the home, Kurey said; "the message the sisters communicate is love and friendship."

And self-esteem, said Sister Mary Davis.

"Some of the girls have been rejected by their families, so we don’t want to be overbearing. They know they can talk to us," she said.

The women who stay at the home to the end of their pregnancies usually remain there a month after their babies are born. A few times, a new mom and baby have stayed a little longer.

The goal is go help them become self-sufficient by helping the women connect with family and other resources and agencies.

"I feel safe here and I know my baby is safe," the mother of a newborn said as she struggled to change his diaper.

The baby cried a bit until the new mom lifted him to her chest.

"It’s nice to hear the babies," said Davis, smiling. "They bring so much joy … even when they cry."