In the wake of several Chicago shelters closing and others on the brink of closure Mayor Richard M. Daley recently announced plans to distribute a federal grant earmarked for the homeless.
In the wake of several Chicago shelters closing and others on the brink of closure Mayor Richard M. Daley recently announced plans to distribute a federal grant earmarked for the homeless. This money is part of the federal Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-housing program, which provides up to 18 months of rental and utility assistance for individuals and families. The city is mandated to use the grant within two years. “If you’re in danger of being homeless or know someone who is, if you’re living in a shelter or know someone who is, please call 311 and find out how to take advantage of this program,” Mayor Daley said. “One effect of the national economic recession that we can see clearly is the increased use of our emergency shelter and interim housing programs.” The city’s Plan to End Homelessness began in 2003 and since then the city’s homeless count has steadily decreased but more needs to be done, he added. Through 2008 and into 2009, about 12 percent of the city’s shelter beds were vacant, compared to today where less than 5 percent are vacant, according to Mayor Daley. The city plans to spend $23 million to help those on the verge of being homeless and $11 million will be used to provide housing relocation, stabilization and other services. For more information, call the city’s non-emergency hotline 311.
