First Priority: Strengthening Housing & Health Navigation

Chicago House is a trusted provider of housing for people living with HIV. Our roots are in the HIV/AIDS crisis, and for many years, our programs were designed exclusively for those with a diagnosis. But today, the epidemic looks different and so our model must shift. 

That’s why, as part of our new three-year strategic plan, we are making a major organizational move to a status-neutral approach. In simple terms, this means that we provide services to anyone at risk for or living with HIV, without requiring a diagnosis to access housing or health navigation. This shift acknowledges that many people fall through the cracks before a diagnosis is even made. 

At the center of this new approach is our expanded rapid re-housing model. This intervention provides short-term rental assistance, housing placement, and wraparound support for people at high risk of HIV transmission, particularly unhoused youth, who experience infection rates up to 12 times higher than their housed peers. Nearly 40% of unhoused youth identify as LGBTQ+, and many face stigma, trauma, and isolation from care. 

As we grow housing, we are also embedding more case managers in clinical settings like St. Bernard Hospital and the South Side Healthy Community Organization to meet people at a critical point, frequently in emergency departments. By intervening early, we aim to reduce chronic hospital visits among individuals facing both HIV and housing insecurity. These challenges can compound one another and require coordinated support to stabilize. 

In one recent case, an individual seeking care for a stomach issue was screened by a provider under a Chicago House HIV testing policy that promotes early detection. He tested positive as well as identified as unstably housed and disconnected from care. After being treated for his stomach issue, he was referred by the provider to Chicago House. Our team developed a personalized care plan and helped him secure stable housing, medical case management, and employment resources. Today, he is on a path toward long-term health and stability. 

This is the future of HIV work: status-neutral, relationship-based, and rooted in housing as healthcare. By reaching people sooner, the Chicago House team can stand with them for the long haul. 

Credit: Achieving Together