Our Commitment to Ending Homelessness
Southwest Chicago Homeless Services has been a cornerstone in addressing homelessness and housing insecurity in our community for over 30 years. Operating from the Chicago Lawn Community across from Marquette Park, we provide essential services such as food, clothing, toiletries, and showers twice a week to those in need. Our team also includes an experienced housing specialist dedicated to helping individuals find stable housing solutions.
Overcoming Barriers With Tailored Support
Our committed team delivers vital case management and housing assistance, effectively addressing challenges like income instability and mental health issues. Clients referred to case management often face significant barriers to securing housing, including lack of income, criminal records, mental health challenges, and addictions. Many also struggle with eviction or displacement due to property foreclosures. All of these clients are in urgent need of help.
What started as a park bench ministry by serving food to homeless persons living outdoors in the Marquette Park community thirty years ago, SCHS has progressed. We have helped adults and families with children who are experiencing homelessness get off the street. Our work is possible due to our amazing board, program staff, community partnerships and donations (in-kind and financial) from individuals, faith communities, foundations and community members.
We are proud to assist over 1,100 individuals annually. With your help we are able to serve more individuals and serve more families.
SCHS by the numbers (annual averages)
SCHS is an influential force in moving homeless individuals and adults with children to higher levels of self-sufficiency.