The Emergency Fund is committed to helping Greater Chicago's low-income neighbors overcome crisis situations through our programs and services. The majority of our assistance works to prevent homelessness for families, but our funds are flexible enough to cover a variety of needs.

As the agency of last resort for many low-income individuals and families faced with a crisis, the Emergency Fund provides financial assistance quickly and without red tape, removes the economic barriers faced by individuals who are struggling to achieve economic self-sufficiency and provides information and referral services to outside programs addressing chronic or long-term issues. In addition, Secretary of State Jesse White's annual Holiday Fund program provides food and gift baskets to needy families and senior citizens on Chicago's north and northwest sides.



Crisis Solution Fund & Self-Sufficiency Fund
Through a collaborative network of more than 50 partner agencies, the Emergency Fund distributes assistance on behalf of low-income Chicago residents facing emergency situations. At each agency, a volunteer Fund Manager disburses anywhere between $1000 and $2500 per month to eliminate these crises and help families get back on their feet.

Rather than responding with cash, our fund managers give transportation passes and food vouchers, make direct payments to landlords and utility companies and purchase money orders to be used toward the purchase of items such as clothing and furniture. Our assistance is limited to once per 12-month period for each client for short-term crisis situations and up to three months of financial support to help families on the road to self-sufficiency. Our average crisis solution grant is about $200, while our average self-sufficiency grant is about $1,100. Clients enrolled in intensive job training programs at our partner agencies (such as The Cara Program) can access significant amounts of assistance, up to $2500, as they work to acheive self-sufficiency.




Through our core programs, the Emergency Fund has proven that providing flexible, immediate help in times of crisis does prevent additional human suffering.

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.