Emerge

The Emerge homeless youth program is designed to assist 20 homeless young adults (15 of whom are single and 5 families) between the ages of 18 and 24.  The program’s goal is to help these individuals successfully transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency and independence.  Our programs aim to help participants increase their sense of self worth, and develop their strengths and talents, so that they are able to end their homeless status.

Program Offerings include: Transitional housing for up to 24 months through furnished apartments located throughout Chicago; Individualized case management; Clinically-based supportive services; Life skills education; Counseling; Nursing and nutritional services; Employment services; Educational assistance; Follow-up services are provided to each client for 12 months after they have transitioned to permanent housing to ensure they maintain their self-sufficiency.

Emerge clients continue to keep in touch with staff long after they leave the program. Here are some of their comments…

 “I was homeless for two years before I walked into the Emerge Program.  Words cannot express how much this program has meant to me.  They nurtured my needs… gave me the support and backing to soar.  Now I feel very optimistic about the future thanks to Emerge.” 

“I have come from living house to house, to having my own apartment now, by the help of Emerge.  Thank you for housing me and my son, and loving us like a family.”