Help for Low-Income Families in Chicago
The Illinois Department of Human Services administers a variety of programs for low-income families. Needy families in the Chicago area can apply for food, cash and child-care assistance online. Additionally, the Illinois Department of Human Services offers an online eligibility tool for low-income families to determine whether they qualify.
Other People Are Reading
-
Supplemental Food Assistance Program
-
Eligible families in Chicago can receive food assistance through the Supplemental Food Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. Qualified applicants receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer card, which works much like a debit card. The Illinois Department of Human Services provides an online application tool and income guidelines.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
-
Chicago families in need may be eligible for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Through TANF, qualified families can receive cash assistance and vocational training. Applicants must be residents of Illinois and have dependent children.
-
Homelessness Prevention Program
-
The Homelessness Prevention Program assists Chicago-area families by offering rental, mortgage and utility assistance to eligible families and individuals in danger of foreclosure or eviction. The Illinois Department of Human Services website provides a list of locations where Illinois residents can apply.
Child Care Assistance Program
-
Low-income families in Chicago may be eligible for the Child Care Assistance Program. The program provides access to affordable, high-quality child care. Qualified applicants can receive a child-care subsidy and referrals There are 175 child-care contractors throughout the state of Illinois, as of January 2011. Parents can choose which contractor best suits their children's needs.
-
References
- Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services: HFS Director
- Illinois Work Net Center: Public Assistance and Support
- Illinois Department of Human Services: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Illinois Department of Human Services: Homelessness Prevention
- Illinois Department of Human Services: Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
Resources
- Photo Credit chicago sky image by SKYDIVECOP from Fotolia.com
