City of Chicago Homeless Prevention Fund
Recognized as the leader in providing homeless prevention dollars in the Chicago area, the Emergency Fund was selected in 2005 by the City of Chicago to house a special Chicago Homeless Prevention Fund as part of Mayor Richard M. Daley’s Ten Year Plan to End Homelessness.

Launched in January of 2003, the Mayor’s Plan takes a three-pronged approach to tackling homelessness in Chicago - Prevention, Housing First, and Wraparound Services.
As the first mayor of a large metropolitan area to endorse a Plan to End Homelessness, Mayor Daley has committed significant resources to the effort and has provided leadership to advocate for funding to further the goals of the Plan.

The City of Chicago works closely with the Emergency Fund to raise dollars from Chicago’s individual and corporate citizens, as well as the faith-based community. Donations to the Chicago Homeless Prevention Fund are made directly to the Emergency Fund for distribution throughout the city.

Research shows that prevention funds are a cost-effective solution to a potentially devastating problem. It is estimated that 10 to 15% of the people who enter Chicago’s homeless system could have maintained their housing with targeted financial assistance. By investing just about $1,000 in a household on the verge of homelessness, the social service system can avoid spending an average of $13,600 on that family in the shelter system.

We know that targeted financial assistance works: 70% of households receiving prevention funds were in their homes after one year.

If you live in Chicago, dial 3-1-1 and ask for "Short-Term Help" to be screened for the Emergency Fund's financial assistance.