Addressing Homelessness in the 48th Ward: Our Commitment to Support and Safety
This is a longer post. Here’s a summary of what you’ll read about as you scroll down:
Statement from Ald. Manaa-Hoppenworth
Ongoing Outreach
Monthly Cleanups
How You Can Help
Communication & Community Engagment
STATEMENT FROM ALD. MANAA-HOPPENWORTH
In recent years, we have seen more of our neighbors living in tents along the lakefront than any other time in recent memory. This cannot be our new normal, and I have a plan in place that provides support for our unhoused neighbors and ensures community spaces including our public parks and beaches remain safe and accessible for all residents.
In 2023, our team successfully helped over 60 people in the 48th Ward move from encampments into stable housing through a series of two Accelerated Moving Events (AMEs) at Margate Park. AMEs have proven to be a successful model where city services are brought directly to the neighbors who need them most. An independent study by the Inspector General found that AMEs are successful in housing residents and keeping them housed. AMEs have been successful in clearing large encampments such as the one at Touhy Park.
I have been a fierce advocate for securing more AMEs in the 48th Ward. Our requests in 2024 have been denied due to budgetary restrictions and funding for AMEs in 2025 is one of my top priorities for the current budget negotiations. I will continue to advocate for two AMEs in 2025, prioritizing compassionate relocation and housing support.
As I advocate for more funding for AMEs, our office’s work to support our unhoused neighbors is ongoing. The work involves outreach teams, regular cleanups, and collaboration with local and city agencies. Read more below about how we’re providing meaningful support for individuals experiencing homelessness and how you can help.
In Community,
Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth
48th Ward Alderwoman
ONGOING OUTREACH
We are committed to supporting our unhoused neighbors transition from temporary shelters or encampments into stable housing. The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) Homeless Services Division coordinates with over 50 community organizations to provide outreach, shelter, housing support, and other vital services to those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The complexity of homelessness often includes factors such as loss of income, health issues, or family circumstances, and we address these holistically. Our office, in collaboration with DFSS Outreach Teams, engages directly with unhoused individuals, offering services such as temporary shelter and connection to essential resources.
MONTHLY CLEANUPS
Our office—in collaboration with the Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS), Chicago Park District, Chicago Police Department, and DFSS—conducts regular cleanups to maintain the safety and cleanliness of public spaces. During cleanups, abandoned tents and accumulated debris are removed. Unhoused neighbors are given written notice seven days prior to these cleanups. Cleanups are part of a standardized protocol to ensure the health and safety of all residents while respecting the rights of those who are unhoused.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Community involvement is essential for keeping our neighborhoods safe, clean, and supported. Here are a few ways you can help:
REPORT NEW TENTS & CLEANUP NEEDS: If you see a new tent or observe abandoned items, email info@the48thward.org to report it. We will send the Homeless Services Outreach Team to offer social services, and/or schedule a cleanup.
ASK FOR HELP: If you or someone you know is facing housing insecurity, call 311 and ask for “Short Term Help” for immediate shelter or rental assistance. DFSS Community Service Centers are available for walk-ins during business hours to provide housing support.
REPORT CRIMINAL ACTIVITY / TRESSPASSING / DRUG USE / HAZARDOUS MATERIALS: If you are the victim of or witness to a crime, report it to the Chicago Police Department by dialing 911. City resources are directly tied to calls for service. CPD recommends that everyone involved call 911 instead of having one person (i.e. building manager) call on their behalf. CPD offers the Criminal Trespass Affidavit and Private Sector Camera Initiative for ongoing concerns. Reach out to Officer Schwark (brian.schwarck@chicagopolice.org) to learn more and sign up.
COMMUNICATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Clear communication is crucial for ensuring safety and transparency in addressing homelessness. To stay informed about our efforts, please sign up for our weekly newsletter. We also encourage you to attend our twice monthly ward night meetings and invite our team to come to your building or community meeting to collaborate on hyper-local concerns.
By working together, we can continue to create a neighborhood where all residents feel supported and safe. Thank you for your patience and commitment to these efforts. If you have questions, concerns, or ideas, reach out to us at info@the48thward.org.