Poverty
Through programs that serve the body, mind and soul, we alleviate the symptoms of poverty, then work to address the root causes of it.
Blue Island Worship and Community Center Poverty Information
Doing the most to fight poverty!
Poverty is so often the result of - and the catalyst for - chronic struggles with hunger, addiction, housing insecurity, mental illness, educational voids and various forms of abuse. These interconnected struggles continue year after year, and often span generations. That's why The Salvation Army works to meet the needs of the whole person through short and long-term assistance - first alleviating the symptoms of poverty and then addressing the root issues that cause it.
We understand that poverty can be a complex issue with far-reaching consequences. Our dedicated local team works closely with individuals and families in the community to assess their needs and connect them with appropriate resources.
By providing comprehensive support, we aim to equip individuals and families with the tools they need to improve their lives. We offer a variety of services in Blue Island to help people overcome financial challenges, address housing and food insecurity, find employment, and build stronger communities.
Whether you're facing a temporary setback or long-term poverty, we're here to help you break the cycle of poverty and achieve your full potential.
Poverty doesn't have to be permanent. You can help!
You can help alleviate poverty in our community by donating to The Salvation Army so we can help overcome poverty with the following programs and services.
Food Pantries
The Salvation Army has food pantries in more than 25 locations throughout the Chicagoland area. Food boxes may include shelf-stable pantry items, breads, cereals, meat and other household necessities. For more information, contact a community and worship center near you.
Homelessness Prevention and Emergency Assistance Programs
The Salvation Army provides emergency assistance to help with mortgage/rent, utility bills, clothing, medication bills, and other needs in order to keep families in their homes. For more information or support, find a location near you, or learn more online.
Pathway of Hope
A comprehensive case management system to help families identify barriers to self-sufficiency (unemployment, insecure housing, lack of job skills, lack of childcare, etc), Pathway of Hope also provides guidance on how to address these barriers, and connects families with community support organizations, and more.
Job Training
The Salvation Army offers job skills training and employment referrals for adults. This program is included in the substance rehabilitation program, and through some Salvation Army community centers.
Shield of Hope
The nation's first Emergency Homeless Assessment and Response Center to address the needs of families in crisis, the Shield of Hope can provide shelter for up to 75 people. The Salvation Army staff help families identify more stable living situations within 14 days. Upon their move, families are connected with community support services to better navigate their futures.
Evangeline Booth Lodge
The Evangeline Booth Lodge is an emergency shelter for families with children who suddenly become homeless due to eviction, disasters, domestic violence, stranded while traveling, or other crises. Booth Lodge can accommodate as many as 60 families each night. In just one year, Booth Lodge provided shelter for 1,085 men, women and children.
Senior Apartments
Booth Manor Senior Residences, in Chicago's West Loop, provides attractive, low-income apartments and supportive services for seniors on fixed incomes.
Breaking the Cycle of Poverty
The Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope initiative marks a pivotal shift to focusing on the core causes of poverty rather than treating the symptoms. Lack of job opportunities, unstable housing, and an underserved educational environment can all be major challenges for someone looking to lead a self-sustainable life. With our help, people living in poverty can break the cycle of crisis and vulnerability and lead families down a path toward increased stability for years to come. It’s a pathway of hope for current and future generations.
Stats
46.7 million
Americans live below the poverty line.
$1,000
emergency expense can push 57% of Americans into poverty.
1087
Corps Community Centers across the United States, providing localized programming to help individuals and families in their communities.
Help break the cycle of poverty
Your donation is crucial for providing essential resources, support, and opportunities that help individuals and families break the cycle of poverty and build a better future.
Other Services
