A Chicago nonprofit organization, All Chicago Making Homelessness History, has received a significant boost in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to enhance its services for homeless youth. The $15 million grant is part of a larger $72 million investment aimed at expanding housing opportunities across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- All Chicago is the only Illinois recipient among 14 organizations awarded HUD funding.
- The grant will support initiatives led by the Youth Action Board, comprised of young people with lived experiences of homelessness.
- The funding aims to address the homelessness crisis in Chicago through innovative solutions proposed by youth.
Grant Presentation and Significance
During a press conference held at Covenant House Illinois in Garfield Park, Marion McFadden, HUD’s principal deputy assistant secretary for community planning and development, presented the award to All Chicago. McFadden praised the organization’s Youth Action Board as a model for empowering those most affected by homelessness to take leadership roles in addressing the issue.
Youth Action Board’s Role
The Youth Action Board, made up of young individuals who have experienced homelessness, played a crucial role in the grant application process. They organized brainstorming sessions with 50 peers to generate ideas on tackling the homelessness crisis in Chicago. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of including youth voices in the decision-making process.
Personal Stories of Resilience
Symone Myvett, co-chair of the Youth Action Board, shared her personal journey during the press conference. Having experienced homelessness herself, Myvett emphasized the power of youth voices in driving meaningful change. She expressed hope that the HUD grant would be utilized to enhance legal aid and resources for young people facing similar challenges.
"The importance is to have resilience. I don’t want people to think it’s impossible to overcome," Myvett stated, reflecting on her own experiences of transitioning from homelessness to stable housing.
Future Plans for All Chicago
While specific details on how the grant will be allocated are still being determined, All Chicago representatives are optimistic about expanding their support services. The organization aims to build on its existing programs to better serve homeless youth in the city, ensuring that their needs are met through innovative and effective solutions.
Conclusion
The $15 million federal grant awarded to All Chicago marks a significant step forward in the fight against youth homelessness in Chicago. By empowering young people to lead the way in developing solutions, the nonprofit is not only addressing immediate needs but also fostering a sense of agency and resilience among those affected by homelessness. This initiative serves as a beacon of hope for many young individuals seeking stability and support in their lives.
