In 1871 , the Great Chicago Fire consumed the city , leaving over 300 dead and over 100,000 homeless . The Society 's board of directors formed a special committee to oversee the relief process . In addition to the $ 5 Million in donations that were received , thousands of tools , sewing machines and other equipment were donated to small businesses to regain their ability to produce goods , whereas 3,000 small and 5,000 large shelters were produced for the victims . Barracks were built in five locations throughout the burnt district and 64,000 smallpox vaccines were administered . According to statistics , between October , 1871 and May , 1873 , the Society aided virtually half the population of the city when the fire broke out . Mayor R.B. Mason was quoted as saying , " I have deemed it best for the interest of the city to turn over to the CHICAGO RELIEF AND AID SOCIETY all contributions for the suffering people of this city . " In 1909 , with the city population growing and the need for relief rising , the Chicago Bureau of Charities merged with The Chicago Relief and Aid Society to form the United Charities of Chicago . As United Charities , the organization became more active in the community in promoting progressive public policies and addressing health issues such as the Mothers Pension Law Act of 1911
Great Chicago Fire
Great Chicago Fire
Metropolitan Family Services