Solving Homelessness

Housing Forward, in partnership with 30-plus stakeholders, is a leader in the efforts of the Oak Park Homelessness Coalition (OPHC). After launching a Plan of Action, the OPHC continues to meet quarterly to develop strategies and solutions to combat homelessness. As a commitment to this effort, Housing Forward has integrated plan strategies into our 3-year strategic plan and will support this initiative through our agency's 25 years of experience and expertise.

Please join us to launch the Oak Park Homelessness Coalition's 2016 Plan of Action. It's time to make homelessness rare, brief and one time in Oak Park! Comprised of representatives from local...

In August, Housing Forward became the lead fiscal agent for three permanent supportive housing programs formerly managed by Pillars, a community-based mental health agency. Housing Forward has been a...

Housing Forward has been fortunate to be able to help those in our community for the past 24 years and one of the most important assets we have is the wealth of talented and caring volunteers that help us achieve our mission. Our volunteers are vital to us, annually giving thousands of hours of their time and resources, they exemplify kindness, compassion and treat everyone with dignity and respect, whether or not they have a home. They truly touch the lives of those who stay at the shelter and in turn, often the lives of volunteers are also changed. Volunteers are needed in the PADS Emergency Shelter to help set up and break down the shelter, prepare meals, and generally supervise the space to ensure a safe environment.

With more than 650 people in attendance on Friday, May 20, Housing Forward presented W. Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu in a night of comedy that raised $19,500 to benefit programs and services to those experiencing or at-risk of homelessness in our community.

On Friday, May 20th, W. Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu will be performing at DePaul's Merle Reskin Theatre, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting Housing Forward. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind event!

Please call or email your state representative to let them know that we need their support for HB 4955 to effectively transition people out of homelessness.

Lincoln Elementary School's 5th grade classes recently donated more than $1,000 to Housing Forward.

On July 1st, Prevail became a program of Housing Forward, strengthening the support system for individuals and families in our communities who are experiencing financial and housing crises.

Do you thrive on last-minute Christmas shopping? If so, we have an opportunity for you. We are still seeking several people to adopt a family for the holidays.

On Wednesday, December 2nd, head to Team Blonde in Forest Park for an exclusive evening of shopping and cocktails - featuring a style show of seasonal trends in clothing, makeup and hair - all while supporting Housing Forward. 15% of all purchases made during the event will be donated to the agency. Space is limited, so please RSVP soon if you would like to attend.

The hunt is on...is your team ready? On Saturday, October 3rd, you'll conquer the streets of Chicago solving riddle & puzzle clues, visiting popular landmarks and completing a series of challenges that require strategy, teamwork & good old-fashioned luck. The race begins and ends at John Barleycorn in Chicago's River North area with drink specials & free appetizers for all race participants. Register now for this fun event!