DFSS 2023 Homeless Services Strategy Book
DFSS 2023 Homeless Services Strategy Book
Download DFSS 2023 Homeless Services Strategy
The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) plays a key role work- ing with community partners to connect Chicago residents and families to resources and supports that build stability, support their well-being, and empower them to thrive. The department’s approach is centered in respect and empa- thy for residents experiencing homelessness and we work to ensure that homelessness isn’t normalized by the systems that intersect with our work. The DFSS Homeless Services Division seeks to create an ef- fective crisis response system that prevents homelessness whenever possible and rapidly returns people who experience homelessness to stable hous- ing.
The Division does this by supporting a range of services and infrastructure for people experiencing or at risk of experi-encing homelessness, which includes prevention programming, providing shelter, outreach and engagement, housing supports, and system planning/coordination efforts. The DFSS Home- less Services Division partners with a network of stakeholders to make instances of homeless- ness in Chicago rare, brief, and nonrecurring. Our homeless services partners include other city agencies,community-based nonprofits, funders, and more. DFSS funding supports over 50 community organizations to provide services to households experiencing or at risk of home- lessness. Our work is informed by collaborative efforts with the Chicago Continuum of Care (CoC) and federal priorities. Our efforts are also guided by the emerging needs and trends of Chicago residents seeking homeless services.