At the Step Up Small Grants Program in Chicago, IL, we understand the critical moments when you’re faced with tough choices and need immediate support. Our mission is to uplift individuals and families by providing small grants during times of need. Whether you're seeking essential groceries, school supplies, or transportation assistance like a bus pass, we're here to help you navigate life's challenges. With a focus on mental health support, we aim to empower you to push forward when obstacles seem overwhelming. If you’re in need, please fill out our screening form to determine your eligibility for our small grants. Your journey toward stability and peace of mind begins with us.

Emergency Services in Chicago, IL provides essential food assistance and clothing to residents facing unemployment and personal hardships. Our dedicated program includes a food pantry that offers emergency food supplies, a clothes closet for clothing needs, and infant formula for children up to one year old. We are committed to supporting individuals and families during their most difficult times, working closely with state, city, and private social service agencies to ensure those in need receive the help they deserve. Whether you are seeking assistance or are referred by a local agency, we are here to provide care and support in your time of need.

In the heart of Chicago, our food pantries are dedicated to providing essential food assistance to those in need. We offer a diverse selection of nutritious food, combining generous donations and affordable purchases from local food depositories. For individuals without access to cooking facilities, we ensure ready-to-eat options are readily available. Beyond immediate relief, our pantries also host cooking demonstrations and share nutritious recipes, empowering clients with practical skills to prepare healthy meals. Our mission is to meet the basic nutritional needs of the community, making it easier for everyone to access the vital food resources they deserve.

Located in Chicago, IL, Love Fridge is a dedicated food assistance initiative that provides community refrigerators to help address food scarcity and reduce food waste. Our unique program operates under a simple yet powerful philosophy: 'Take what you need, bring what you can.' We welcome everyone to visit our refrigerators, where they can find nutritious food items and contribute to the well-being of their neighbors by leaving items for others. While we do our best to keep our food pantries stocked, please note that availability may vary. Love Fridge is committed to fostering a sense of community and generosity, ensuring that all individuals have access to the food they need.

In the heart of Chicago, IL, our Food Pantry is dedicated to alleviating food insecurity by offering quality food assistance to those in need. We understand the importance of access to nutritious food, and we strive to provide essential nourishment to individuals and families who are facing hunger. Every Friday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, we welcome community members to our pantry, where we supply a variety of food items designed to meet basic dietary needs. Our mission is to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the health and well-being of our neighbors.

The Illinois Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Chicago is dedicated to providing essential food assistance to low-income households, ensuring that everyone has access to the nutrition they need. Through our program, eligible families receive monthly benefits loaded onto the Illinois Link Card, which functions like a debit card for purchasing groceries. Our support helps individuals and families maintain healthy diets by allowing them to buy food products intended for human consumption, excluding hot meals. Benefit amounts are determined based on household income and size, as we strive to empower those who can work while supporting those in need. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, we encourage applicants to utilize online and telephone services for assistance, ensuring safety and convenience. During the months of April and May, all SNAP recipients will receive the maximum benefit amount to help them through these challenging times.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) in Chicago, IL, is dedicated to providing vital cash assistance and extensive support services to families facing hardship. We offer time-limited financial aid to help cover essential needs, including food, housing, and clothing, ensuring that families can focus on rebuilding their lives. Our program goes beyond immediate financial support by providing access to GED preparation, vocational training, higher education opportunities, and job retention services, all aimed at fostering long-term self-sufficiency. We also address additional challenges by offering screenings for substance abuse, mental health, and domestic violence, connecting families to critical resources. Eligible families can easily apply for TANF online or at a local office, where the assistance amount is tailored based on family size and specific needs. Through our commitment to empowering families in Chicago, we strive to help them regain stability and build a better future.

Acts of Kindness in Chicago, IL, is a compassionate outreach program dedicated to supporting individuals and families in need. Born from the mission of True Rock Ministries, we provide essential resources such as clothing, shoes, and furniture at no cost throughout the year. We ensure that children are prepared for school by distributing school supplies in the fall and offer holiday assistance by providing groceries and meals to families and veterans during Thanksgiving, as well as toys for families during Christmas who might otherwise struggle to provide for their children. Our non-denominational organization believes in empowering our community through kindness and generosity. We warmly invite those in need to visit us and encourage those who wish to contribute to our mission by donating gently used furniture, clothing, or shoes to help us continue to serve our neighbors in Chicago.

Acts of Kindness is dedicated to uplifting families and veterans in the Chicago area by providing essential food assistance and community support. Each Thanksgiving, we distribute groceries to those in need and offer meals and clothing to the homeless, ensuring no one goes hungry on this special day. Aiming to empower children, we supply them with book bags filled with school supplies and clothing, making a significant impact on their educational journey. Additionally, we donate furniture to families, helping them create a stable and welcoming home environment. Together, we strive to foster a spirit of generosity and compassion throughout Chicago.

Located in Chicago, IL, the Food Program is dedicated to providing essential food assistance to individuals and families facing nutritional challenges. Our mission focuses on offering a client choice food pantry, where recipients can select the nutritious food items they prefer, ensuring that meals meet their specific needs and tastes. We distribute emergency food every Sunday morning, allowing clients to access healthy options up to twice a month. By prioritizing choice and nourishment, we empower our community to make informed decisions about their food, fostering dignity and support in addressing hunger.

Located in Chicago, IL, the Food Pantry is dedicated to alleviating food insecurity by offering emergency food assistance to households in need. We prioritize providing quality food items that meet essential nutritional needs, ensuring that individuals and families struggling with hunger have access to healthy meals. Our mission is to serve as a reliable resource for those facing food challenges, fostering a caring community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Community Service Centers in Chicago, IL, are dedicated to helping individuals and families in need by providing essential resources and support. Our comprehensive services include clothing assistance and referrals to local food pantries, as well as public benefits eligibility assessments and application assistance. We also offer guidance for access to the Regional Transportation Authority Ride Free Program, shelter placements, and substance abuse treatment referrals. Veterans can find a range of services tailored to their needs, while our workforce development program aids in securing employment. Additionally, our centers provide crucial information on rental, utility, and financial assistance programs. During extreme weather conditions, our facilities serve as Warming and Cooling Centers, ensuring that all Chicagoans have a safe refuge from harsh elements.

In the heart of Chicago, IL, Nutrition Counseling and Education is dedicated to empowering individuals through expert guidance in healthy eating and nutrition. Our team of four Registered Dietitians offers personalized nutrition counseling and engaging group education, tailored to meet the unique needs of our diverse communities. We provide a range of services, including cooking demonstrations and interactive workshops, all aimed at fostering nutritious diets and healthy eating habits. To access our supportive programs, please prepare your intake documents, and we'll be ready to help you embark on your journey towards improved health and well-being.