“We cannot do everything at once, but we can do something at once.”
— Calvin Coolidge
Donating to specialized charities is a great way to maximize the impact of your financial resources because they have in-depth knowledge, expertise, and targeted resources dedicated to addressing specific issues faced by those in need
Great organizations that are best equipped to help those in need
Shelter / Food
A Safe Haven
All Chicago
Broadway Youth
Catholic Charities
Chicago Department of Family and Support Services
Greater Chicago Food Depository
Cornerstone Community Outreach
Facing Forward
Pacific Garden
Sarah’s Circle
Professional Support
A Safe Haven
Broadway Youth
Catholic Charities
Chicago Department of Family and Support Services
Greater Chicago Food Depository
The Night Ministry
Good News Partners
Pacific Garden
Sarah’s Circle
StreetWise
Great organizations to donate to
Great organizations to donate to
A Safe Haven
(773) 435-8300
A Safe Haven is a program dedicated to breaking the cycle of homeless and poverty. It provides a wide range of services, including housing, job training, addiction treatment, and supportive services, to help individuals and families overcome barriers and achieve self-sufficiency.
All Chicago
(312) 379-0301
All Chicago fights to end homelessness by working collaboratively with partner agencies, government entities, and community stakeholders to provide a continuum of services, including prevention initiatives, housing programs, and support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Broadway Youth Center
(773) 388-1600
The Broadway Youth Center is a vital resource in Chicago, providing comprehensive support and services to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability. They offer a safe and affirming space where young people can access housing assistance, healthcare, counseling, educational support, and community resources tailored to their unique needs.
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago
Multiple Locations / Phone Numbers
Specifically for the homeless population, Catholic Charities provides a continuum of care tailored to the unique circumstances of individuals experiencing homelessness. This includes emergency shelter services, transitional housing programs, permanent supportive housing initiatives, and access to vital resources such as healthcare, job training, and substance abuse treatment.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless
(312) 641-4140
They engage in direct advocacy efforts, coalition building, and public awareness campaigns to advance policies that protect the rights and dignity of homeless individuals, challenge discriminatory practices, and create pathways to stable housing and opportunity for all residents of Chicago.
Chicago Shares
(312) 573-4494
They offer "Chicago Shares" vouchers, which can be purchased by community members and distributed to homeless individuals in lieu of cash. Recipients can use these vouchers to purchase essential items such as food, clothing, and personal care items at participating stores and businesses, empowering them with dignity and choice while fostering connections with the broader community.
Connections for the Homeless
(847) 475-7070
Connections for the Homeless is a nonprofit organization based in Evanston, Illinois, dedicated to ending homelessness in the North Shore area and surrounding communities. They provide a comprehensive range of services, including emergency shelter, housing assistance, case management, and supportive services, to individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
Facing Forward
(773) 265-1207
They offer a holistic approach to addressing the complex needs of their clients, including housing assistance, case management, life skills training, employment support, and access to healthcare and education.
GiveNKind
(847) 802-8977
GiveNKind is a charitable organization that connects donors with individuals and families in need by facilitating the donation of essential items such as clothing, household goods, and personal care products. Through their platform, they streamline the donation process and partner with various organizations to ensure these items reach those facing economic hardships or crisis situations, making a positive impact on their lives while promoting sustainability.
Good News Partners
(773) 764-4998
They focus on providing affordable housing, supportive services, and opportunities for personal and professional growth to individuals and families facing homelessness or poverty.
The Night Ministry
(773) 784-9000
Through nighttime outreach programs and shelter services, they provide compassionate aid and foster community connections to those in need.
The Orange Tent Project
(312) 285-0712
Recognizing the immediate need for shelter among those without stable housing, the project organizes efforts to collect and distribute tents to those in need. These tents serve as vital temporary shelters, offering protection from the elements and a sense of security to individuals living on the streets.
Pacific Garden Mission
(312) 492-9410
Rooted in Christian principles, the mission offers not only practical assistance but also spiritual support to those in need. Alongside emergency shelter, hot meals, and clothing, the mission provides optional religious services such as Bible studies, prayer sessions, and chapel services.
Sarah’s Circle
(312) 492-9410
Sarah's Circle is a nonprofit organization based in Chicago that provides comprehensive support services to women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. They offer a range of services including interim housing, case management, counseling, employment assistance, and access to healthcare. They also operate a Daytime Support Center where women can receive meals, showers, laundry facilities, and participate in various programs and workshops.
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