A Season to Stand Together
Chicago House was born from necessity. In the early days of the HIV crisis, when people were isolated and ignored by government systems, our founders established a place to call home. It was more than a shelter. They offered dignity and community at a time when both were scarce, and we have carried on that commitment throughout the decades to improve quality of life for those impacted by HIV.
However, today the call to action is just as critical. Cuts to SNAP benefits and healthcare make it harder for residents to maintain the routines that keep them healthy and safe. As housing and healthcare costs continue to rise, individuals earning lower wages are increasingly turning to SNAP benefits, food pantries, and nonprofits to help stabilize. The minimum wage in Illinois is $15 per hour, which is about $31,200 per year. The Fair Market Rent for a three-bedroom apartment in Chicago is $2,290, or $27,480 annually, leaving little margin for a family of four once housing expenses are met. Safety net programs designed to support everyone during times of hardship are now essential for many full-time workers navigating the rising cost of living.
When daily necessities go unmet, medications can be missed and medical appointments delayed, increasing the risk of illness and HIV transmission. Government funding provides a foundation, but it can’t cover every gap. That’s how community support builds hope for the future.
This November, our legacy of care continues. Your contribution helps provide meals, warm clothing, and other essentials that keep residents on track with their health and well-being. Each gift turns uncertainty into reassurance, letting residents know they are seen and supported, while also empowering our staff to act on behalf of our clients.
The campaign builds toward Giving Tuesday, a day when the power of collective generosity is felt across the world. By joining this effort, you become part of the Chicago House family, strengthening the ties that hold us together and bringing shared purpose to our work.
From the earliest days of HIV advocacy to the present, Chicago House has made progress toward ending the epidemic because people step up when it matters most. This month, we invite you to do the same. Together, we can bring stability and hope to residents who are facing new barriers, carrying forward our mission built on compassionate resilience.