With the state’s 18-month stopgap budget set to expire on Dec. 31, the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless brought 136 homeless leaders and students to Springfield to talk to 42 legislators during the veto session.

Our leaders in Springfield include these high school students from Kenwood Academy and Ogden International. (Photo by Gisel Romero)

During the November 16 lobby day, CCH leaders asked legislators to pass a responsible budget with adequate revenue. CCH sponsored three buses that brought leaders from neighborhoods all over Chicago, as well as Aurora, Joliet, and Waukegan.

Leaders visited legislators’ offices and had an opportunity to speak to them and their staffs.  They shared their stories of how the budget crisis has impacted their access to services, and their worries if providers shut down more programs without further funding. CCH leaders suggested revenue solutions that could help state leaders avoid devastating cuts to human services. 

Leaders from Aurora’s Hesed House (Photo by Jim Picchetti)

CCH’s commitment to giving leaders the opportunity to talk to legislators never goes unnoticed. State Rep. LaShawn Ford (D-Chicago) said that he was impressed with CCH leaders’ knowledge, passion, and commitment to making sure homeless services receive adequate funding.

We note that CCH itself does not receive government funding. Instead, the coalition’s advocacy is on behalf of the shelters, housing, and human service programs that assist homeless families, youth, and adults.

– Policy Specialist Niya Kelly

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