Supporting Information

10 Shopping Tips for Parents Find shopping tips parents can use when shopping for gifts.

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.

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.

2009 Domestic Violence Summit Series The Domestic Violence Summit Series was intended as a focused follow up discussion on the Points for Engagement in the Assessment of the Current Response to Domestic Violence in Chicago.

2013 Consumer Recalls Find children products that were recalled.

2013 Festival & Event Dates Something for Everyone!

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.

Become a Condom Distribution Partner

Bullying Prevention Welcome to the CDPH Bullying Prevention Working Group web page. This page is for youth, parents, adults who work with youth, stakeholders, etc. who want to find resources to prevent bullying in their schools and communities.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 Hall Choirs Get into the holiday spirit while listening to the classics sung by children's choirs from throughout the city.

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.

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.

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.

Crew and Extras Casting Calls Find out the latest casting calls in Chicago.

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.

Disability Resources- Information and Referral MOPD's Information and Referral staff assist people with disabilities in making more effective use of the health, education, training, economic and social resources available to them. Services are provided to people with disabilities, social service professionals, educators and the general public.

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 - 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.

Domestic Violence and the Work Place - Victim’s Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA) The Illinois Victim’s Economic Security and Safety Act, or VESSA, provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to an employee who is a victim of or who has a family member who is a victim of domestic or sexual violence to address issues arising from domestic or sexual violence.

Emergency Overnight Shelters - 2012 The following page contains a listing of Emergency Overnight Shelters.

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

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

Facts and Figures about People with Disabilities in Chicago and the U.S. Statistical information about people with disabilities in Chicago and the U.S.

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.

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

Guidelines for Writing and Reporting about People with Disabilities The Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities provides information to print and broadcast reporters, students, disability organizations and the general public about terminology and portrayal issues concerning people with disabilities.

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.

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!

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

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.

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.

Job Resources for Youth List of Job Resources for Youth

Juicebox Juicebox offers Chicago’s best music, dance and theater in a kid-friendly setting. A free series of cutting edge performances, Juicebox is geared at toddlers but is engaging for the whole family.

Lead Poisoning Prevention Some simple things you can do to help protect your family from lead poisoning.

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.

Mammography Screening Sites Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) Mammography Screening Sites.

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

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.

New Federal Requirements for Crib Standards Beginning June 28, 2011 all cribs sold in the United States must meet new federal requirements for overall crib safety.

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.

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

Residential Garbage

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.

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 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.

Survive Alive House The Public Education Section of the Chicago Fire Department's Fire Prevention Bureau has collaborated with the Chicago Public Schools, Archdiocese of Chicago, and hundreds of pre-schools to provide a Fire/Burn prevention type of program at the pre-kindergarten through 8th grade levels.

Take Charge. Take the Test. HIV Public Awareness Campaign To learn more about free HIV testing or to find an HIV testing location near you, call 1-800-AID-AIDS (243-2437).

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 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.

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.

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.

WIC Offices

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 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

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