NEWS

Chicago Alliance Submits Comments to HUD on Proposed Homeless Definition

As part of the implementation of the HEARTH (Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing) Act, HUD released the first in a series of proposed regulations on April 20, 2010.  This rule details changes to the definition of homelessness, including an expansion to those who are at risk of imminently losing their housing within 14 days (up from 7) and unaccompanied youth and homeless families who have not lived independently for 90 days or more, have experienced persistent instability as measured by three or more moves, and can be expected to continue in such status.  You can read HUD's proposed rule here. 

In drafting our comments to HUD, the Chicago Alliance sought feedback from the Advocacy Committee, the Service Providers Commission Executive Commission, and several constituency groups.  The lively discussions and feedback were extremely helpful to staff and we thank everyone who participated.  The Alliance submitted our comments to HUD electronically on June 14, 2010.  Comments are due by June 21, 2010 and can be submitted at www.regulations.gov.

Click here to read the Chicago Alliance's comments on the proposed homeless definition. 

2009 Point in Time Data Summary

On January 29, 2009, the City of Chicago conducted its biennial point-in-time (PIT) count of unsheltered and sheltered individuals facing homelessness in Chicago. The 2009 Executive Summary of the results outline the key findings that demonstrate:

·         a 47% reduction in individuals on the streets

·         a 1% increase in homeless families in shelters
 
The 2009 PIT Executive Summary and 2005-2009 PIT Comparison can be accessed via the Alliance’s website.

2009 PIT Executive Summary
2005-2009 PIT Comparisons

Report Shows that State Budget Cuts and Delayed Payments Will Push Many Into Homelessness

The Chicago Alliance to End Homelessness, along with the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, Housing Action Illinois, and the Supportive Housing Providers Association, released a report on March 24, 2010 demonstrating that unless the State of Illinois passes comprehensive tax reform, even more people will lose their housing and become homeless. The state budget crisis has reduced funding for homeless programs by nearly $10.7 million or 23%. These cuts impact over 15,000 adults, teens, and children annually.

The report was based on a survey of homeless service providers that offer the following state-funded services: homeless prevention, emergency shelter, transitional housing, homeless youth housing, and permanent supportive housing. Survey results show that most providers are struggling to keep their doors open in the wake of dramatic budget cuts, delayed state payments, and the uncertainty of even more drastic cuts in the future.

Read the full report here and learn about the devastating impact of Illinois’ budget crisis on our efforts to end homelessness and ensure all Illinoisans have safe, affordable housing.  Contact Nicole Amling for more information. 

Read about our efforts on Progress Illinois. 

Chicago Alliance to End Homelessness Brings Major Civic Leaders to Board of Directors

Chicago Alliance to End Homelessness Brings Major Civic Leaders to Board of Directors. Twelve new high-profile directors contribute diverse talents and resources to ending homelessness. Click here for board list/documents/CHICAGO ALLIANCE TO END HOMELESSNESS BOARD OF DIRECTORS.doc