Supporting Information

10 Things Every Consumer Should Know About Auto Repair When faced with the possibility of costly auto repair work, most consumers want to get the best deal for their money. It is equally important to know that the repair service is dependable. In Chicago, consumers have certain rights when it comes to working with an auto repair shop outlined in the Chicago Municipal Code. Chapter 4-228.

10 Things Every Consumer Should Know About Credit Download the booklet - 10 Things Every Consumer Should Know About Credit

2005 - 2011 Domestic Violence Help Line Reports The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services’ (DFSS) Division on Domestic Violence released the 2010 call volume data for the City’s Domestic Violence Help Line.

2013 Festival & Event Dates Something for Everyone!

311 Frequently Asked Questions... 311 Frequently Asked Questions

Accessible Housing Housing information services offered by the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) are designed to promote and identify integrated, adaptable/accessible and affordable housing for people with disabilities in the Chicago metropolitan area.

Accessible Transportation Information for People with Disabilities Information on Accessible Transportation Information for People with Disabilities

Agents, Diseases and Threats Biological, Chemical, Radiological, Natural Disasters & Severe Weather and Emerging & Re-emerging Infectious Diseases.

Assistive Technology Assistive Technology is the provision of home modifications, personal devices or equipment that will assist an individual to become more independent.

BPA-Free Kids Ordinance Information On May 13, 2009, the Chicago City Council enacted the BPA-Free Kids Ordinance. The ordinance restricts the sale of any container designed to be filled with food or liquid to be used for a child under the age of three that contains Bisphenol A. The ordinance goes into effect on January 31, 2010.

Battery Button Dangers Small, coin-sized batteries can be found in products in nearly every home in America.Young children and senior adults are unintentionally swallowing the button batteries and in some cases, the consequences are immediate and devastating.

Bed Bug Information Bed bugs can be found almost anywhere, from apartment buildings to four star hotel rooms. Recently, they have become more problematic. Possible reasons include modern bed bugs’ resistance to pesticides, increased travel, global warming, and lack of public awareness.

Bill of Rights for Consumers Using Tax Preparation Services Tax payers in Chicago will now have recourse against unscrupulous tax preparers after the City Council passed Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s Tax Preparer Ordinance

Blue Cart & Recycling Drop-off Center Recycling: Accepted Materials List of materials that are accepted in the Chicago Blue Cart Program & Recycling Drop-off Centers.

Carbon Monoxide Information Frequently Asked Questions about Carbon Monoxide Information

Caregiving Support Groups The Chicago Department of Family & Support Services is mindful that throughout Chicago, an ever growing number of people are devoting themselves to the daily care of loved ones. Whether the role of caregiver comes gradually, or through a sudden crisis, caregivers need somewhere to turn. That is why the Chicago Department of Family & Support Services has expanded our Caregiver Support Program to meet the essential needs of family caregivers.

Case Management Case Management empowers an individual with skills, education, motivation and support services needed to accomplish a healthy, more independent lifestyle.

Chicago Air and Water Show The Chicago Air and Water Show presented by Shell Oil Products U.S. and the City of Chicago is the largest FREE show of its kind in the United States. The show can be viewed along the lakefront from Fullerton to Oak Street, with North Avenue Beach as the focal point.

Chicago Artists Month (CAM) Chicago Artists Month (CAM), presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, highlights the creativity of artists throughout Chicago through both curated and non-juried events and programs.

Chicago Conservation Corps' Environmental Leadership Training Program Find out how you can become a C3 Leader.

Chicago Conservation Corps' Student Clubs C3 Student Clubs provide a great opportunity for students.

Chicago Cultural Center Drawn by its beauty and the fabulous free public events, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to the Chicago Cultural Center every year, making it one of the most visited attractions in Chicago.

Chicago Cultural Center - Architecture and History Constructed over 100 years ago as the Chicago Public Library and a Civil War memorial, the Chicago Cultural Center reflects the best of Chicago. Red more about the rich history of the Chicago Cultural Center.

Chicago Cultural Center - October Schedule Discover the free visual art and performance programs presented at the Cultural Center by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and its partners. The beautiful, landmark Chicago Cultural Center is one of the city’s ten most popular attractions and is considered one of the most comprehensive arts showcases in the United States.

Chicago Cultural Center Visual Art Program The Visual Art Program at the Chicago Cultural Center is dedicated to presenting compelling exhibitions of fine art in all media, encompassing historic as well as contemporary art. Special emphasis is placed on emerging and underrepresented artists, particularly those who live and work in the Chicago area.

Chicago Cultural Plan In February 2012, the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) launched an exciting initiative to develop a cultural plan for Chicago. Released in October 2012, the plan created a framework to guide the city’s future cultural and economic growth.

Chicago Farmers Markets Chicago's Farmers Markets bring more than 70 vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and flowers to neighborhoods throughout the City of Chicago. Markets are held every day of the week in the city.

Chicago Football Classic The CFC showcases two top historic black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Their schools’ football teams and marching bands are the focal point of weekend activities in Chicago.

Chicago Gospel Music Festival The 28th Chicago Gospel Music Festival, presented by The Black McDonald’s Operators Association (BMOA) and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) is June 20-23. Once again the Bronzeville neighborhood, the birthplace of Gospel music, will serve as the festival’s main home – with the weekend portion of the festival featuring two stages of music at Ellis Park (37th and Cottage Grove).

Chicago Recycling Guide: A to Z Chicago's A to Z Guide to Recycling

Chicago Revealed Chicago Revealed introduces viewers to the people and places that make Chicago what it truly is - a dynamic city with something new to discover around every corner.

Chicago's Memorial Day Parade Chicago's annual Memorial Day Parade will step off at noon and proceed south on State Street from Lake Street to Van Buren Street on Saturday, May 25, 2013.

Chicagoween Halloween is more than a day in Chicago; it’s an entire season. The city, its parks, buildings and streets are decorated and filled with an array of activities for children and the child within you.

Childhood Exposure to Violence (CEV) This 5-module curriculum that focuses on building a community response to Childhood Exposure to Violence helps participants define Childhood Exposure to Violence, recognize the symptoms/behaviors a child may exhibit, and what can be done to respond appropriately when a child has been exposed to violence.

Children Services Income Guidelines Families can access quality Head Start/Early Head Start programs that offer quality care and development with a unique supportive services component for little or no cost.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony The City of Chicago and UL are proud to present the 100th Anniversary of the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Daley Plaza, Tuesday, November 26 beginning at 5 pm with a music program and the tree will be lit at 6 pm.

City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower A resplendent venue showcasing the work of local photographers and artists, the City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower, is centrally located along the city's famed Magnificent Mile.

City of Chicago Emerging Contaminant Study Analysis of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, and Personal Care Products

City of Chicago Informs Public of FEMA Flood Assistance Process

Clarke House Museum Built in 1836 for Henry B. Clarke, the Clarke House Museum is Chicago’s oldest house. The house shows what life was like for a family in Chicago during the city’s formative years before the Civil War.

Clarke House Museum Family Day Discover the sights, sounds, and smells of early Chicago and learn about the 1850s as you converse with authentically costumed interpreters.

Cold Weather Pet Care In Chicago, winter is a season of bitter cold and numbing wetness. Help your pets remain happy and healthy during the colder months by following simple guidelines.

Community Action for Domestic Violence Recognize that domestic violence has a serious and negative impact on the quality of life in our city. It is everybody's business.

Community Service Centers DFSS’ six Community Service Centers are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. On Wednesday, all of the centers are opened from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. By providing evening hours, we hope to make it easier for those who work, care for family members or attend school during the day to visit our centers and learn about the assistance available to their households. City residents who need assistance can drop in or schedule an appointment in advance.

Composting Bins Composting is the decomposition of yard and fruit/veggie food scraps by worms and bacteria. FAQs about compost bins.

Consumer Recalls The City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection (BACP) provides consumers with information about recalled merchandise and ensures that recalled products are removed from store shelves.

Consumers BACP protects consumers from fraud by resolving complaints and taking action against fraudulent businesses. BACP promotes consumer awareness through education and information to help consumers protect themselves.

DCASE Theater & Dance An on-going performing arts series that showcases critically acclaimed local, national and international music, theater, dance and multi-disciplinary artists, newly commissioned works and debut performances at the Chicago Cultural Center, The Storefront Theater, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and other locations throughout the city.

DFSS Well-Being Task Force The Well Being Task Force has been established to provide services for and advocate on behalf of seniors living alone without internal or external support systems; by establishing a foundation upon which to organize agencies, community partners, and the efforts of their volunteers, to assist in reducing the vulnerability of isolated seniors by locating the senior, sharing information with the seniors, and providing regular follow-up with them.

Daily Living Skills Training Through this program, MOPD provides in-home individualized step-by-step training on performing housekeeping, meal preparation and personal care tasks.

Dance-Along Nutcracker

Disability Resources - Information Assistance The provision of general information on available services, benefits and programs through public and private agencies to persons with disabilities of all ages, and to those interested in information regarding people with disabilities or issues related to those with disabilities.

Disaster Assistance Application Process Step by Step Disaster Application Process.

Dog Friendly Area (DFA) Frequently Asked Questions Friendly asked questions about Dog Friendly Area (DFA)

Domestic Violence Annual Reports Select from the system’s list below to access links to existing annual reports containing Illinois domestic violence victim information.

Domestic Violence Data ILDVDI databases contain information that can be manipulated and is often downloadable, searchable, and/or customizable.

Domestic Violence Special Publications ILDVDI Customized reports are typically produced once and typically reflect a “unique” exploration. Formats include, research studies, reports to community, special reports, newspaper articles, etc.

Domestic Violence and the Work Place If your abuser is harassing or threatening you at work, you may want to think about creating a safety plan for your job. A work-place safety plan is a way for you to identify and make changes to your daily routine which may increase your physical safety and emotional well-being.

Domestic Violence and the Work Place - Employment Protections While many victims of domestic violence fear they will be discriminated against by their employers after they disclose their situations, there are federal laws, which can provide job protection. If you believe you have been discriminated against because of domestic violence, talk with a lawyer or advocate to learn more about your legal rights and options.

Elder Abuse Information Elder abuse affects thousands of Illinois senior citizens every year. As a result of the abuse, these victims experience severe neglect and extreme feelings of fear and loneliness. As members of the community it is our obligation to raise awareness and reach out to this often isolated group of victims.

Emergency Preparedness for Pet Owners Necessary precautionary steps in the case of floods, fires, blizzards, terrorism.

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Get involved in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy programs.

Exploding Star Orchestra Exploding Star Orchestra will perform in the Chicago Cultural Center's Claudia Cassidy Theater on Friday, Oct. 18.

Expo 72 Expo 72 is located at 72 E. Randolph St.

Family Case Management Offices

Family Planning Clinics

Fast-Track Immunization Clinics Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) Fast Track immunization clinics provide vaccinations at no charge for children 0 through 18 years of age.

Film Festivals Find out what film festivals are taking place in Chicago.

Find a Residential Recycling Drop Off Center

Food and Nutritional Information The Chicago Department of Public Health encourages everyone to include healthy foods from all food groups to "Get Your Plate in Shape."

Free Flu Vaccine at Walgreens Get your free flu voucher at Walgreens

General Facts About Domestic Violence Some general facts to know about Domestic Violence.

Heads Up On Holiday Shopping We are providing consumers with information on how to make good choices while shopping and protect them from scams, both online and at retail stores.

Home Purchase Assistance Program The Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPA) offers a down payment and closing cost assistance to first time Homebuyer to purchase a Single Family, town home, condominium or 1 – 4 units home located in the City of Chicago as their principal residence/owner occupied.

Homeless Outreach and Engagement The first step in housing homeless people is to engage them in the process. For most that is easy, they are anxious to regain the stability of permanent housing. But for others who have a history of life on the streets or making the rounds of shelters, engagement can be a challenge. The Department of Family and Support Services conducts a variety of outreach activities.

Homeless Prevention Through six Community Services Centers and its emergency response operation, the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (FSS) conducts intensive case management. Every day we help people in crisis regain stability and retain their housing.

Homeward Bound Animal Placement Program Transferring animals to other State Licensed animal shelters or breed rescue groups often provides them a much better chance of being adopted than remaining at our shelter. Through the Homeward Bound Program, nearly 4,000 animals are transferred out to partnering shelters each year!

Housing First Safe, secure housing provides a powerful incentive to those who have suffered homelessness. People are motivated to focus on the services that will help them retain their new home, stability and independence.

How to Prepare Your Family For an Emergency Family emergency planning can be the key to surviving an emergency. That's why it's important to talk to your family to prepare them for various emergencies.

Human Service Delivery Human Service Delivery is about people and partners.

Illinois Disaster Assistance Call(1-800)(ENG) For Illinois homeowners, renters and business owners. If you sustained losses or damage you may be eligible for disaster aid

Individual, Family and Community Preparedness There is never too much preparedness when it means saving a LIFE! You can cope with disaster by preparing in advance and by working with your family as a team. Preparation should include: getting informed (including a checklist), making a plan, assembling, and maintaining your plan and kit.

Information for Children Exposed to Domestic Violence Exposure to Domestic Violence, either experienced directly or witnessed between caregivers can have a detrimental effect on children.

Information for Concerned Friends & Family Members Every year, millions of domestic violence victims suffer from the horrors of abuse alone. Having been isolated by their abusers from friends and family, many are disconnected from sources of support, strength and safety. By reaching out to your friend or family member and breaking the silence, you can make a difference.

Information for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender It is important that as victims, survivors, family members, friends, religious leaders, employers, and community residents we recognize and address the needs of LGBT victims of domestic violence.

Information for Young Adults Relationship violence occurs when one partner attempts to maintain power and control over the other. Research suggests that thousands of young adults are physically, emotionally and sexually abused by their dating partners every year.

Innovative Programs for Underserved Populations Locations Innovative programs provide employment-related services tailored to the needs of underserved populations such as immigrants, veterans, persons with disabilities, the homeless, non-custodial parents, persons with chemical dependencies and persons with criminal backgrounds.

January January water and sewer main constructions projects.

Job Resources for Youth List of Job Resources for Youth

Kids Actitivites at AccessChicago Looking for something fun to do this summer for the whole family? Come out to Navy Pier this summer!

Know the symptoms of West Nile virus See the list of symptoms on this page. If you think you may have symptoms, contact your health care provider immediately.

LMO - 2 Reports This report details the efforts of the Department of Water Management, City of Chicago has under taken to conserve, and wisely manage our natural water resources.

Low Cost Pet Vaccine Clinic Dates Chicago Animal Care & Control is hosting Low-Cost Vaccine Clinics for City of Chicago residents.

Low-Cost Education and Weatherization Program The Low-Cost Weatherization and Education Program (LCWEP) aims to prepare, educate and train Chicago residents in low cost weatherization techniques. C3 volunteers are trained in low-cost home weatherization techniques. Volunteers then train their neighbors and distribute and install weatherization kits.

Maddie's Fund Maddie's® Community Shelter Data Grant supported the collection and publication of shelter statistics from community coalitions comprised of animal control agencies, traditional shelters and adoption guarantee organizations.

Maxwell Street Market The Maxwell Street Market is a Chicago tradition of bargains and bargaining with an international flavor.

Maxwell Street Market - Fitness Sundays Fitness Sundays will feature Hula Hoops, Kickboxing, Zumba and Salsa.

Maxwell Street Market - Karaoke Sundays Try out your singing talents at the Maxwell Street Market Karaoke Sundays from 10am-2pm on June 19, July 14, August 11 and September 8.

Maxwell Street Market - Sunday Steppers Set Join us for the 4th annual Sunday Steppers Set hosted by Ken Watkins with the National Steppers Society.

Millennium Park Discover a state-of-the-art collection of architecture, landscape design and art that provide the backdrop for hundreds of free cultural programs including concerts, exhibitions, tours, and family activities. In Millennium Park, you’ll find a new kind of town square – a lively, spectacular gathering spot located in the heart of the city and a destination for Chicagoans and visitors alike.

Millennium Park - Caroling at Cloud Gate Celebrate the holidays in Millennium Park, when Caroling at Cloud Gate returns for the holiday season. This free program, presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events showcases Chicago choral groups and invites visitors to participate in a holiday sing-along.

Millennium Park - McCormick Tribune Ice Rink The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink has become one of the most popular winter destinations in the city.

Millennium Park - Upcoming Events Find out what exciting events are coming to Millennium Park.

Mobile Immunization CareVan Mobile Immunization CareVan Schedule

Mortgage and Foreclosure Rescue Scams Foreclosure Rescue and Loan Modification Scams

Mortgages Programs to assist potential homeowners and existing homeowners with their mortgage.

Neighborhood Festivals More than 400 neighborhood festivals take place in Chicago each year, showcasing the city's ethnic customs, music and food.

Neighborhood Lending Program Home Purchase and Purchase/Rehab Through the Neighborhood Lending Program, the City of Chicago and Neighborhood Housing Services provide first and second mortgage loans or the purchase and purchase/rehab of 1-4 units for homeowners who might otherwise not be able to purchase a home.

Neighborhood Parades Find out when your favorite neighborhood parade is taking place in Chicago.

Personal Assistance/ Homemaker Services The Personal Assistance/Homemaker Program allows qualified individuals with disabilities who live in the city of Chicago and are under the age of 60 to receive in-home services.

PlayStreets - Schedule of Events Schedule of events throughout the City of Chicago

Practical Assistance - Disability Resources Practical Assistance is assistance provided to help an individual obtain a service or benefit. Assistance may include completing forms such as the circuit breaker, filing applications such as the RTA Reduced Fare application** and writing and/or explaining a letter or formal document.

Procurement Fundamentals 2012 The City of Chicago's Guide to Procurement Fundamentals

Produce Mobiles Site Listing and Schedules Produce Mobiles organizations service all clients regardless of where they live. Hours of operation are from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

Public Health Preparedness for Special Needs Populations “Special Needs Populations” are generally understood to be populations with some physical or mental disability that limits their ability to carry out day-to-day activities.

Purchasing A Mattress In Chicago Before buying a mattress, there are certain things every consumer should know.

RecycleBank Program In August 2009, the City partnered with RecycleBank to conduct a field test involving approximately 10,000 households in its Blue Cart Recycling program areas.

Recycling in Chicago There are many opportunities for recycling in Chicago. Find out how you can start recycling.

Refund Anticipation Loans (Instant Refunds). What Consumers Need To Know. The High Cost of “Instant Refunds” or Refund Anticipation Loans. Important tips for Consumers during Tax Season.

Research, Reports and Data Resources Research, Reports and Data Resources - Children and Youth and Homelessness

Resources and Frequently Asked Questions for Multi-Unit Recycling As a resident in a multi-unit building, you understand that you have a responsibility to recycle in your unit and participate in your buildings recycling program.

Resources for Professionals - Office of Violence Prevention The Office of Violence Prevention offers professional development training sessions on a variety of violence prevention topics.

Safe Havens: Supervised Visits & Safe Exchange Grant Program As part of their participation as a demonstration site for the Safe Havens Supervised Visitation and Safe Exchange Program, three Chicago visitation centers and their collaborative partner, the Mayor’s Office on Domestic Violence, explored how the current design, processes, and procedures of visitation and exchange centers account for aspects of culture.

Safety Planning The most dangerous time for many victims of domestic violence is when they are thinking about or actively trying to end the relationship. A personal safety plan is a way for you to identify strategies to protect yourself during this dangerous time.

Sale of Alcohol To Minors Repeat Offenders Click to see a list of Sale of Alcohol to Minors (SAM) Repeat Offenders within the past two years.

StoryCorps StoryCorps is partnering with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and Chicago Public Media to record, preserve and share the diverse stories of communities in Chicago.

Summary of Youth Services Here is some background information on the services provided by the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services Youth Services Division:

Support Chicago's 100K Homes Fund The goal of Chicago Registry Week is to create a by-name registry of people living on our streets and shelters, so we can prioritize those who have been out there the longest and who are the most vulnerable.

Support Groups for Older Relatives Raising Children The Chicago Department of Family & Support Services is mindful that throughout Chicago, an ever growing number of people are devoting themselves to the daily care of loved ones. Whether the role of caregiver comes gradually, or through a sudden crisis, caregivers need somewhere to turn. That is why the Chicago Department of Family & Support Services has expanded our Caregiver Support Program to meet the essential needs of family caregivers.

Supportive Services - Case Management The Department of Family and Support Services provides case management through its six Community Services Centers and Emergency Response operation. DFSS also funds private agencies to provide case management and a range of support services including employment training and placement, education, substance abuse treatment, mental health care, domestic violence assistance and more.

Taste of Chicago Taste of Chicago is the nation's premier outdoor food festival showcasing the diversity of Chicago's dining community.

Teen Dating Violence Prevention During the month of February, the Chicago Department of Public Health Office of Violence Prevention will be highlighting Teen Dating Violence (TDV) Prevention.

The Big Draw Chicago The Big Draw Chicago is a month-long, citywide festival that brings people together through informal art-making.

The City of Chicago Food Truck Rally The first Food Truck Rally of its kind presented by the City of Chicago, Goose Island Beer Company and Illinois Lottery will take place on Daley Plaza, Friday, Oct. 11.

Tips to Avoid Post Storm Damage Scams Tips to avoid post storm damage scams

UL Santa House As part of UL’s ongoing partnership with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, the UL Santa House will be back on Daley Plaza. The UL Santa House serves as a replica of Santa’s workshop, allowing children and families to experience the wonder of the North Pole and have their picture taken with Santa Claus throughout the holiday season.

Under The Picasso - October Schedule The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events presents FREE cultural programs year round weekdays at Noon at the Daley Civic Center.

Veterans Day Remembrance Ceremony Veterans Day Remembrance Ceremony, which will be held “on the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month” at Soldier Field. (November 11, 11 am) Enter at Gate 0.

Volunteering at Chicago Animal Care and Control Animal Care & Control welcomes volunteers to assist in the socialization and adoption of animals housed at Animal Care & Control.

Water Quality Results and Reports The results and reports about the quality of Chicago drinking water.

What Can I Do to Conserve and Manage Water? Chicago was built in this very location because of its access to water. Lake Michigan and the other Great Lakes hold one-fifth of the Earth's fresh water.

What is Domestic Violence? Domestic violence occurs when one partner uses physical, emotional, sexual and/or financial abuse to maintain power and control over the other.

What is Single Stream Recycling Single stream recycling refers to a system in which all recyclables are mixed together in a collection truck, instead of being sorted by material type (i.e. newspaper, plastic, glass, aluminum, etc.) by the resident.

What is a Public Health Emergency? A public health emergency is any adverse event (natural or man-made) that compromises the health of the population and has the potential to cause widespread illness

Who is CCHR? The Commission on Human Relations promotes appreciation of Chicago's diversity and works to eliminate prejudice and discrimination. Commissioners, advisory councils, and staff conduct pro-active programs of education, intervention, and constituency building to discourage bigotry and bring people from different groups together.

Wired Fridays Wired Fridays is a Mid-day dance party series featuring DJs and electronic music.

Zero Waste Chicago