We work with hundreds of Chicagoans experiencing homelessness and poverty each year, connecting people and creating opportunity through access to social services, housing, job training, and food.
Inspiration Corporation does not provide emergency shelter to individuals experiencing homelessness. If you are homeless and looking for immediate shelter, please call 311 and dial 4 for “short term help” or call the City of Chicago’s Department of Family and Supportive Services (DFSS) hotline at (800) 654-8595.
COVID-19 Resources
- View information on unemployment benefits
Please note, The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) is currently only accepting applications online and by phone. - View a list of housing resources from Housing Action Illinois
- View a list of resources from The City of Chicago
- View The Greater Chicago Food Depository’s list of food banks
Housing
Inspiration Corporation’s Housing Services program draws participants from the City of Chicago’s Coordinated Entry System.
If you are homeless and looking for housing, you must visit an Access Point agency that can complete a Standardized Housing Assessment with you. This assessment records your current situation and needs so that you can be connected to a housing program, if eligible, when there is an opening. Housing programs range from transitional housing to short term rapid rehousing to permanent supportive housing.
A list of agencies that conduct assessments and their hours can be found at www.csh.org/access. Keep in mind that housing placement is based on vulnerability and other factors, and completing an assessment is not a guarantee that you will obtain housing. For more information on the selection process, please contact info@csh.org.
Job Training
If you are out of work and need help starting a new career, we provide a free job training program to prepare students for jobs in the foodservice industry. You will gain hands-on experience by training in a real restaurant. The program also includes pre-employment skills training, addressing teamwork, communication, interviewing, and resume writing.
Click here for more information and to begin the enrollment process!
Additional Resources
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Call (800) 273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Call (800) 799-7233 for the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
Free Crisis Text Line
If you are in need of someone to talk to there is a free Crisis Text Line. Text HOME to 741741 to reach a Crisis Counselor. The service is free and available 24/7.
Success Stories
During his incarceration for his participation in a robbery, Benjamin became determined to help change the story for others.
After joining our programs upon his release, he was able to complete his Bachelors Degree with help from our Lori Jericho Memorial Education fund. He is now pursuing his Masters Degree and using his insight to be a mentor and advocate for youth involved in the justice system.
