Written by 
EAST GARFIELD PARK — A three-building complex in East Garfield Park that for decades operated as shelter for women and single mothers will become a new community center, thanks to the help of a wealthy philanthropist.
The City Council on Wednesday approved a measure to turn the former Florence Crittenton Anchorage complex at 2627 W. Washington Blvd. into a community center.
Constructed in 1892, the Crittenton Anchorage took over the building in 1949, turning it into a place of housing and respite for single women and their children. Later known as the Living Center for Girls, the complex remained a haven for young women until closing in 1973.
It remained vacant for years and was in jeopardy of being demolished when it was purchased last year by Samantha Walton, the wife of Lukas Walton, the billionaire grandson of Walmart founder Sam Walton.
Matt Berenberg, who is part of the ownership team and is responsible for overseeing design and construction, told Block Club this summer that Samantha Walton decided to buy the 132-year-old building after reading coverage about the previous owners’ plan to tear it down.
Preservation Chicago organized to landmark the buildings, including the main Wolfson Building, last year.
Preliminary plans for the buildings could include a resource center, library, offices, art studios and yoga and wellness spaces, as well as an event space, Berenberg and architect Trina Sandschafer told neighbors at a community meeting this summer.
The project still needs approval from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Listen to the Block Club Chicago podcast: