Franciscan Outreach exists as a safety net for hundreds of men and women who rely on us to provide for their immediate basic human needs and who count on us to safeguard them from harm. During this COVID-19 pandemic, we are especially concerned about our guests who are most vulnerable, including people who are 60 years old or older and have underlying health conditions that put them at greater risk for illness.

We’re working closely with our community partners on Chicago’s West Side, including Rush University Medical Center, Heartland Alliance, Lawndale Christian Health Center, University of Illinois Hospital and A Safe Haven to put protective measures in place to minimize the risk of illness and transmission and to address the urgent medical needs of our guests.

In an effort to increase social distancing and isolation practices, we worked together with the City of Chicago’s Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) to transport 145 individuals experiencing homelessness to a local Chicago YMCA. This action was a proactive step to decrease capacity at our two largest shelters on Chicago’s West Side to increase social distancing and to reduce the risk of illness and transmission.

With this additional location, we are now operating four shelters 24/7. The Chicago YMCA, Salvation Army and the Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD) are supplying cots, blankets and food to help us provide for our guests at this additional location. However, the immediate needs of our guests and our shelters has grown tremendously.

To provide immediate assistance, please consider making a financial contribution.