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HOMELESSNESS ON THE RISE
Read TIME Article and USA Today
Our mission
West Suburban PADS exists to serve individuals and families who are homeless - or at-risk of homelessness, with dignity and respect, through shelter, housing and supportive services.
Our programs
Over 750 men, women and children access one or more of PADS’ programs each year. West Suburban PADS offers services in four focus areas: Emergency Shelter, Supportive Services, Supportive Housing, Homeless Prevention. Programs range from basic food and shelter, to support services, case management, temporary housing for working families, couples, and single adults, permanent housing for persons disabled by mental illness, and the prevention of homelessness. Toward this end, West Suburban PADS' programs work to transition homeless individuals and families to secure an affordable, permanent residence.
Our service area
West Suburban PADS serves the following suburban Chicago communities: Oak Park, Forest Park, River Forest, Bellwood, Berkeley, Berwyn, Broadview, Cicero, Elmwood Park, Forest View, Franklin Park, Hillside, Maywood, Melrose Park, Northlake, River Grove, Schiller Park, Stickney, Stone Park, Westchester.
Why are people homeless?
1. A lack of affordable housing is the leading cause of homelessness. Housing, both rental and home ownership opportunities, are needed for all incomes. Unfortunately, the demand for housing that is affordable for persons with lower-incomes does not meet the supply. Government rent subsidies for qualifying households are under-funded and have long (2+ years) waiting lists. There is an affordable housing crisis in the Chicagoland area.
2. A lack of a livable wage is also a leading cause of homelessness. A person working full-time for minimum wage ($5.50 an hour) earns $11,440 annually before taxes - an income that is inadequate to afford housing, food, transportation, health care and other basic amenities. Families simply must juggle bills each month just to survive.
3. A lack of available services and resources to serve the poor. In particular, job training, mental health services, medical care, and substance abuse treatment services are either underfunded or have received federal and state cutbacks making it increasingly difficult to serve those with limited or no income.
Homelessness is a struggle...you can help.
Please consider making a donation to help support our important programs and services. |