Frances Cabrini arrived in New York City on March 31, 1889, beginning her mission to aid Italian immigrants.
On March 31, 1889, Frances Xavier Cabrini stepped onto American soil in New York City with six Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart. Tasked by Pope Leo XIII to care for Italian immigrants, Cabrini faced significant challenges including prejudice and financial constraints. However, her unwavering faith and determination led her to establish the Sacred Heart Orphan Asylum, the first of many institutions she would open to serve immigrants. This marked the start of a significant phase in her ministry within the United States, highlighting her role as a pioneer in social work and immigrant advocacy at a time when such support systems were scarce.