Illinois Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff, Action‑First Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide focuses on nonprofit, faith‑based, and community organizations in Illinois. It does not cover federal or state benefit programs except when a charity helps you apply or when income guidelines are needed for eligibility context.

Illinois snapshot that explains the need:

• In 2022, an estimated 36% of Illinois female‑headed households with children lived in poverty. (americashealthrankings.org)
• Overall state poverty rate: 11.6% (U.S. Census QuickFacts, 2018–2022). (census.gov)

Emergency Help (Start Here)

If you’re in immediate danger or cannot wait days for a callback, use these 24/7 options first.

Quick Help Box

• If you need a safe place tonight with kids, Salvation Army Shield of Hope can be reached via Chicago 311; families kept together. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org, salvationarmyusa.org)
• If you need food today, use the Greater Chicago Food Depository map for Cook County or the Northern/Eastern Illinois food bank finders statewide. No ID required at many sites. (chicagosfoodbank.org, solvehungertoday.org)
• For diapers or baby items, check Share Our Spare (Chicago), Diaper Bank of Chicago, Maryville Crisis Nursery (24/7 short‑term child care), or your regional diaper banks. (shareourspare.org, diaperchicago.org, maryville-crisis-nursery.constantcontactsites.com)
• For help with gas/electric bills from charities, look at Nicor Gas Sharing Program (via Salvation Army), Peoples Gas Share the Warmth (via CEDA), and Warm Neighbors Cool Friends (Ameren IL). (nicorgas.com, peoplesgasdelivery.com, warmneighborscoolfriends.org)
• For free legal advice (eviction, child support, orders of protection), call CARPLS Cook County hotline 312‑738‑9200 or your regional legal aid below. (carpls.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Application Checklist (use this for most community grants)

• Government‑issued photo ID for adults in household (or school ID for teens if asked).
• Proof of Illinois address (recent mail, lease, shelter letter).
• Proof of income for the last 30 days (paystubs, child support, benefits letter); if none, written explanation may be accepted.
• Current bill, shut‑off notice, or eviction notice (if asking for utility/rent help).
• Children’s birth certificates (sometimes requested by shelters/diaper banks).
• Contact info for your landlord or utility (if a pledge must be made).

Note: Many charities use income standards tied to Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG). 2025 FPG for a family of three is $26,650\ast \ast ;forfouris\ast \ast$32,150 (48 contiguous states). (aspe.hhs.gov)

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How to Use This Guide

• Each section starts with the most important action to take.
• You’ll see exact phone numbers, links, service hours, and—where available—real dollar amounts and eligibility rules.
• At the end of every section, you’ll find “What to do if this doesn’t work” for a Plan B.
• Keep calls short and focused; lines are busy. If a call center is overwhelmed, try early mornings and have your documents ready.

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Food, Groceries, Meals

Start here: Check your county’s main food bank map and today’s pantry hours.

• Cook County: Use the Greater Chicago Food Depository “Find Food” map. Pantries serve anyone in need; ID is often not required (some programs ask for ID to verify service area). (chicagosfoodbank.org)
• Northern Illinois (13 counties including Lake, DuPage, Kane, Will, McHenry): Use Northern Illinois Food Bank’s “Get Groceries & Resources.” Weekly mobile markets are open to everyone—no ID or proof of income required. (solvehungertoday.org)
• Eastern/Central counties (21‑county region): Use Eastern Illinois Foodbank’s site to find partners; note Foodmobile schedules and service pauses; call ahead. (eifoodbank.org)
• Statewide map: University of Illinois Extension “Find Food IL” combines food pantries, meal sites, and stores that take LINK/WIC—good for rural moms. (extension.illinois.edu)

Food bank facts that help with planning:

• Northern Illinois Food Bank serves 13 counties and provides “about 250,000 meals per day” through its network. Distribution centers are in Lake Forest, Rockford, Geneva, and Joliet. (solvehungertoday.org)
• Eastern Illinois Foodbank reported 9.7 million meals distributed in FY2025. (eifoodbank.org)

Required documents at pantries:

• Many sites ask only for your name, household size, and ZIP; some request ID or proof of address. Bring a cart/bags for heavy items. (chicagosfoodbank.org)

Eligibility notes:

• Most church/community pantries serve anyone expressing need; some limit visits per month or require residency in a ZIP. Details are listed on each map entry. (chicagosfoodbank.org, solvehungertoday.org)

Real‑world example:

• A mom in Waukegan can check Northern Illinois Food Bank’s calendar, choose a drive‑thru mobile market, and be served even without SNAP or an ID; show up early and bring trunk space. (solvehungertoday.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Dial 211 and ask the navigator to search for “community meals,” “delivery,” or “homebound pantry” near your ZIP, in your language. (211illinois.org)

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Diapers, Baby Supplies, and Crisis Nurseries

Start here: Find a diaper partner or emergency nursery that serves your county.

• Diaper Bank of Chicago: citywide collaborations; contact (312) 880‑7195 or email. (diaperchicago.org)
• Share Our Spare (Chicago region): hub for diapers and baby essentials (partners distribute—check the partner list on site). (shareourspare.org)
• St. Louis Area Diaper Bank (serves IL’s Madison & St. Clair via partners): 25–50 diapers monthly; see partner list for Metro East IL pickups. (stldiaperbank.org)
• Bottom Line Diaper Bank (United Way of Champaign County): distributes via local partner agencies each month. (unitedwaychampaign.org)

Emergency child care (short‑term so you can handle a crisis):

• Maryville Crisis Nursery (Chicago): 24/7 hotline 773‑205‑3637; free, short‑term care for children birth–6; up to 72 hours per stay. (maryville-crisis-nursery.constantcontactsites.com, dailyherald.com)
• Crisis Nursery (Urbana): open 24/7, free emergency care for children birth–6; also provides diapers, formula, clothing; call 217‑337‑2730 or text 217‑636‑4221. (champaigncountyair.com)

Important update for Chicago parents:

• Greater Chicago Food Depository’s diaper program ended June 30, 2025; check Share Our Spare’s partner list for alternative diaper sites. (chicagosfoodbank.org)

Documents:

• For nurseries: child’s basic info; any medical needs; your contact and emergency contacts. For diaper banks: some sites ask for ID or proof of child’s age; others do not—check the site listing. (unitedwaychampaign.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Dial 211 and ask for “diaper banks” or “baby supplies” near your ZIP; in rural areas, ask about public health WIC offices that keep emergency diaper stock. (211illinois.org)

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Housing & Family Shelters (Non‑DV)

Start here: Call for placement, then show up with ID and any notices.

• Salvation Army Shield of Hope (Chicago family shelter): 924 N Christiana; families placed via 311; 75 beds nightly; can scale to 125 in emergencies; families stay together; onsite meals and services. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Salvation Army Evangeline Booth Lodge (family interim housing): 800 W Lawrence, Chicago. For placement, call 311; up to 60 families; average stay ~63 days. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• DuPagePads (DuPage County): emergency/interim housing; walk‑in or call 630‑682‑3846 option 1; families stay together; showers, laundry, case management. (dupagepads.org)
• Connections for the Homeless (Evanston): help with diversion, drop‑in services, prevention; main line 847‑475‑7070; Hilda’s Place drop‑in hours posted. (connect2home.org)

Required documents:

• Photo ID, any eviction or lock‑out notices, children’s IDs/birth certificates if available; if you don’t have documents, still call—shelters won’t turn you away for lack of paperwork at intake. (ccolife.org)

Realistic timelines:

• In Chicago, same‑day placements depend on bed availability and family size; plan on phone wait time and travel time to intake locations (Shield of Hope or SPARC for singles). (ccolife.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Dial 211 and ask for “homelessness prevention” (rent arrears, motel vouchers) or “diversion” options in your county; ask specifically about Catholic Charities emergency assistance. (211illinois.org, catholiccharities.net)

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Domestic Violence Safety & Housing

Start here: Call or text the statewide hotline at 877‑863‑6338 any time. They will identify an open shelter near you and arrange transport if needed. (callforchange.info)

• Catholic Charities (Chicago) offers DV counseling and transitional housing; hotline is still 877‑863‑6338. (catholiccharities.net)
• A Safe Place (Lake County): 24/7 lines 847‑249‑4450 or 800‑600‑SAFE (7233); 33‑bed emergency shelter; housing and legal advocacy. (asafeplaceforhelp.org)
• Sarah’s Inn (West Cook): 24‑hour crisis line 708‑386‑4225; text 708‑669‑6149 (reply within 24 hours). Counseling, safety planning, legal advocacy. (sarahsinn.org)

If you can’t safely call:

• Use hotline chat options (when available), or have a trusted friend call for you. The City of Chicago confirms the IL DV Help Line (call/text). (chicago.gov)

What to bring if you can:

• IDs, birth certificates, medications, school records, any court orders. If you can’t gather these safely, advocates will help you replace them. (Hotline advocates will safety‑plan this with you.) (callforchange.info)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the hotline says all shelters are full, ask for “hotel placement or alternative site” and a callback list. Then dial 211 for temporary non‑DV family shelter while you wait. (211illinois.org)

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Utility & Energy Help (Charity‑based funds)

Start here: Call your utility’s partner charity before shut‑off.

• Nicor Gas Sharing Program (administered by The Salvation Army): Grants up to $400\ast \ast onceperprogramyearforcustomersat\ast \ast 201$150). Apply in person at a Salvation Army site; approved grants usually post within 30–60 days. Chicago help line 773‑205‑3570. (nicorgas.com)
• Peoples Gas Share the Warmth (administered by CEDA): Grants up to $200 toward past‑due Peoples Gas bills; apply with CEDA 800‑571‑2332 or via their site. Income guidelines posted publicly. (peoplesgasdelivery.com, cedaorg.net)
• Warm Neighbors Cool Friends (Energy Assistance Foundation for Ameren IL customers): Grants up to $500 for households between 200%–300% FPL (or 80% AMI); matching payment and active account required; apply through local partner agencies via the WNCF site. (warmneighborscoolfriends.org)

Tips:

• Call as soon as you get a disconnection notice; bring ID, 30 days of income proof, and your full bill. Some funds require a recent “good‑faith” payment (WNCF). (warmneighborscoolfriends.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your utility for a payment plan while you’re waiting for a charity pledge; then dial 211 to search for church‑based funds (parish conferences of St. Vincent de Paul often help). (211illinois.org)

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Legal Help (Evictions, Custody, Child Support, Orders of Protection, Debt)

Start here: Call an intake line, even if you’re unsure you qualify.

• Legal Aid Chicago (Cook County): Client Screening Unit 312‑341‑1070. (legalaidchicago.org)
• CARPLS Legal Aid Hotline (Cook): 312‑738‑9200 (free advice; evening hours Mon/Wed). For housing & debt ER program: 855‑956‑5763. (carpls.org)
• Prairie State Legal Services (36 counties in northern/central IL): find your local office; common eligibility is up to ~125% FPL (some programs higher). Regional phones (e.g., West Suburban Office 630‑690‑2130; Waukegan 847‑662‑6925; Joliet 815‑727‑5123, etc.). (pslegal.org)
• Land of Lincoln Legal Aid (65 counties in central/southern IL): Legal Advice & Referral Center 877‑342‑7891; eviction hotline 855‑601‑9474. (lincolnlegal.org)

What to bring:

• Lease, notices, court papers, paystubs, parenting orders, and a timeline of events. Ask for interpreters if needed (provided at no cost by legal aid). (pslegal.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Dial 211 and ask for “pro bono legal clinics,” law school clinics, or county bar association referral services. (211illinois.org)

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Free & Charitable Health Care

Start here: If you’re uninsured and low‑income, call a free clinic.

• CommunityHealth (Chicago): new patient line 773‑969‑5924; appointments only; multiple sites; interpreters (Spanish/Polish). (communityhealth.org)
• Illinois Association of Free & Charitable Clinics (IAFCC): use clinic search to find free clinics statewide. (illinoisfreeclinics.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask 211 for “free clinic” or “charitable clinic” filters in your county, or check FQHCs (community health centers—nonprofit, sliding fee) if a free clinic isn’t nearby. (211illinois.org)

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Faith‑Based Charity Networks You Can Call

Start here: These networks are built to help with rent/utility arrears, food, and case management.

• Catholic Charities (Chicago): intake line 312‑655‑7700 for crisis assistance, rental/utility help (one‑time), and connections across Chicago, suburban Cook, and Lake County. (catholiccharities.net)
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Joliet: Daybreak Center (emergency housing) 815‑774‑4663; prevention help when funding allows. (catholiccharitiesjoliet.org)
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Rockford: emergency assistance for rent (often “last $100\ast \ast ”),utilities(“last\ast \ast$75”), diapers; county numbers listed on their contact page (e.g., 815‑399‑4300 admin; local lines vary). Assistance typically once per year. (search.211illinois.org, catholiccharities.rockforddiocese.org)
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Springfield: regional offices in Alton, Quincy, Decatur, Effingham, Granite City, Springfield, etc.; call your nearest office (admin 217‑523‑9201). (cc.dio.org)
• Salvation Army (North & Central Illinois Division): family shelters and emergency assistance; Shield of Hope (via 311) and Evangeline Booth Lodge (773‑275‑9383). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul (local parish conferences): call the hotline for your town; help can include rent, utilities, car repair, or furniture vouchers when funds allow (varies by conference). Rockford Council lists dozens of local numbers. (svdprockfordcouncil.org)
• United Way/211: use 211 or the 211 Illinois website to locate local United Way partners and direct service referrals near you. (211illinois.org)

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Transportation & Mobility (When the car breaks or bus won’t cut it)

• Loaves & Fishes CARES Car Program (DuPage): donated cars repaired and awarded to working families with referrals and financial education; currently paused for new applicants due to low donations—check site; collaboration with DuPagePads announced to expand access. (loaves-fishes.org)
• Working Bikes (Chicago): low‑cost bikes and local donation programs (Cycle of Power/Peace) that include bike, helmet, lock, lights—useful for commuting to work/childcare. (workingbikes.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask 211 for “car repair assistance,” “transportation vouchers,” or “workforce transportation” programs in your county; availability varies. (211illinois.org)

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Diverse Communities: Targeted Resources and Access

LGBTQ+ single mothers

• Many DV and shelter networks are LGBTQ+‑affirming; confirm with hotline. Center on Halsted offers support services (Chicago). For legal name/gender marker issues, legal aid can help. (wlrc.uic.edu)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children

• Ask 211 for disability‑aware DV services and shelters; Cook County Sheriff lists safety planning resources for people with disabilities. Clinics and legal aid provide free interpreters. (cookcountysheriffil.gov, pslegal.org)

Veteran single mothers

• Ask Salvation Army/Nicor for veteran‑specific utility grants (Nicor veterans up to $150); Legal Aid has veteran priorities in some regions. (nicorgas.com)

Immigrant and refugee single moms

• Catholic Charities (Rockford, Chicago) and other diocesan offices provide immigration services and language access (over 150 languages on Chicago intake line). DV survivors can get help regardless of immigration status. (catholiccharities.net, catholiccharities.rockforddiocese.org, pslegal.org)

Tribal‑specific resources

• American Indian Center of Chicago: cultural programming, community connections, and referrals; (773) 275‑5871, 3401 W Ainslie St, Chicago. Urban Indian health programs may offer culturally‑specific care. (enjoyillinois.com, uihi.org)

Rural single moms (limited transportation)

• Use the University of Illinois “Find Food IL” map and your regional food bank’s mobile market calendars; call ahead because schedules and mobile pantry stops can change. (extension.illinois.edu, eifoodbank.org)

Single fathers

• Most church and charity programs serve all parents. When calling, state you’re the custodial parent and ask for “family shelter” or “family emergency assistance.”

Language access

• 211 and Catholic Charities offer multilingual services; CommunityHealth serves in Spanish/Polish; ask any hotline for interpreter access. (211illinois.org, catholiccharities.net, communityhealth.org)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting until shut‑off or lock‑out day to call. Charity funds are limited and require time to approve pledges.
• Bringing no paperwork. Even community funds often need a bill or lease and 30 days of income proof.
• Not asking about language or disability access. Free interpreters and accommodations exist—ask.
• Assuming you “don’t qualify.” Many church funds help even if you’re slightly above government program limits.
• Visiting one pantry and giving up. Use the maps to try a different day/time or a mobile market.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Illinois‑specific)

1. Where can I call in Chicago to get placed into a family shelter tonight?
   Call 311. Families are directed to Salvation Army Shield of Hope (924 N Christiana). Single adults go to SPARC at 2241 S Halsted. (ccolife.org)
2. I’m in Lake County and need safety from abuse with my kids. Who has beds?
   Call A Safe Place 24/7 at 800‑600‑SAFE (7233) or 847‑249‑4450; they operate emergency shelter and housing in Lake County. (asafeplaceforhelp.org)
3. Are food pantries really free without ID?
   Many in Cook County don’t require ID, though some ask for proof of address or limit visits. Always check the pantry’s listing and call first. (chicagosfoodbank.org)
4. I live in DuPage County—what’s my fastest path to interim family shelter?
   Contact DuPagePads at 630‑682‑3846 (option 1) or visit 703 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton during posted intake hours. (dupagepads.org)
5. My Nicor bill is past due but I’m over LIHEAP limits. Any help?
   Yes—Nicor Sharing Program (via Salvation Army) can grant up to $400\ast \ast forthoseat\ast \ast 201$150; approvals usually post within 30–60 days. (nicorgas.com)
6. I need diapers in Chicago. Where do I go?
   Check Share Our Spare partners and Diaper Bank of Chicago; for emergencies with infants/young children, Maryville Crisis Nursery is 24/7 at 773‑205‑3637. (shareourspare.org, diaperchicago.org, maryville-crisis-nursery.constantcontactsites.com)
7. I’m in a rural county and the food truck schedule changed. How do I verify?
   Use Find Food IL and your regional food bank website/calendar; call the pantry or foodmobile phone line before you drive. (extension.illinois.edu, eifoodbank.org)
8. Where can I get quick legal advice about an eviction?
   In Cook County, call CARPLS at 312‑738‑9200 or 855‑956‑5763 (housing/debt ER). Elsewhere, call Prairie State Legal Services or Land of Lincoln intake lines listed above. (carpls.org)
9. Can a church help with just the “last $100”ofmyrent?Yes—inRockfordDiocese,CatholicCharitiesliststypical“last\ast \ast$100** rent / last $75 utilities” when funds allow, once per year. Other dioceses and St. Vincent de Paul conferences vary. (search.211illinois.org)
10. What are the current poverty guidelines charities use to screen income?
    2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines (contiguous U.S.): family of three $26,650\ast \ast ,familyoffour\ast \ast$32,150. Some programs use a % of FPL such as 200% or 300%. (aspe.hhs.gov)

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Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips

• Funding fluctuates. Charities routinely run out of funds near month‑end or winter peaks. Call early in the week and morning hours.
• Expect call‑backs. Many charities use voicemails and return calls within 24–72 hours.
• Be open about safety. If abuse or stalking is part of your situation, say it. You’ll get faster routing to DV‑specific services.
• Keep receipts and reference numbers. For utility pledges, note the pledge number and the name of the caseworker.

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Program Tables You Can Scan Fast

A) Shelter & Housing Charities (selected)

B) Food Networks by Region

C) Utility Assistance (Charity/Fund)

D) Diapers, Baby Items, Crisis Nurseries

E) Free Clinics & Legal Aid

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Step‑by‑Step: How to Ask for Help (Scripts That Work)

• Start with your need and deadline: “My Peoples Gas shut‑off is scheduled in three days. I have two children. I have my 30‑day income proof and a copy of the bill.”
• Ask about eligibility immediately: “Do you use FPL or ZIP residency rules? If I’m over income for LIHEAP, can I still apply for Share the Warmth or your church funds?” (peoplesgasdelivery.com)
• Confirm documents & timeline: “What exact documents do you need, and how long will approval take? If I’m approved, how quickly will the pledge post?” (Nicor Sharing says 30–60 days after approval.) (nicorgas.com)

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What to Do if You Hit a Wall (Plan B)

• Call 211 and ask the navigator to 1) submit a warm referral to an agency, 2) flag any “unmet needs” so you get a callback if funds refill, 3) check churches in your ZIP that have benevolence funds. (211 Illinois handled 176,464 contacts in 2024 and tracks unmet needs.) (211illinois.org)
• Try a different county partner. Example: if a diaper bank partner is out, ask for the next pickup site or the public health clinic that stocks emergency diapers. (search.ne211.org)
• For shelters, ask for diversion help—some agencies provide gas cards, short motel stays, or mediation with landlords to avoid entering shelter. (connect2home.org)

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Resources by Region (sample, not exhaustive)

Chicago & Cook County

• Salvation Army Shield of Hope (family shelter via 311). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Greater Chicago Food Depository “Find Food” map. (chicagosfoodbank.org)
• Catholic Charities Chicago Crisis Assistance 312‑655‑7700 (rent/utility help when available). (catholiccharities.net)
• CommunityHealth (free clinic) 773‑969‑5924 (new patients). (communityhealth.org)
• CARPLS Legal Hotline 312‑738‑9200. (carpls.org)

Collar Counties / Northern IL

• Northern Illinois Food Bank finder & mobile market calendar. (solvehungertoday.org)
• Prairie State Legal Services (local offices in Waukegan, West Chicago, Joliet, Woodstock, etc.). (pslegal.org)
• A Safe Place (Lake County DV) 800‑600‑SAFE. (asafeplaceforhelp.org)

Central IL

• Eastern Illinois Foodbank (partners and Foodmobile updates). (eifoodbank.org)
• Land of Lincoln Legal Aid intake 877‑342‑7891. (lincolnlegal.org)
• Crisis Nursery (Urbana) 217‑337‑2730. (champaigncountyair.com)

Southern & Metro East IL

• St. Louis Area Diaper Bank (Metro East partner sites). (stldiaperbank.org)
• Catholic Charities of Springfield (regional office contacts). (cc.dio.org)

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Resource List (name • descriptive link • phone • address)

• Salvation Army Shield of Hope (family shelter intake via City of Chicago) • Program details and contact • via 311 • 924 N Christiana Ave, Chicago. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Salvation Army Evangeline Booth Lodge (family interim housing) • Program page (placement via 311) • 773‑275‑9383 • 800 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago (crisis assistance) • Emergency assistance info • 312‑655‑7700 • Multiple locations. (catholiccharities.net)
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Joliet (Daybreak Center) • Shelter & services • 815‑774‑4663 • 611 E Cass St, Joliet. (catholiccharitiesjoliet.org)
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Rockford (emergency assistance) • Program and county contacts • Admin 815‑399‑4300; local lines vary. (catholiccharities.rockforddiocese.org)
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Springfield (regional offices) • Office directory • Admin 217‑523‑9201 • 1625 W Washington St, Springfield. (cc.dio.org)
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul (Rockford Council) • Find your local parish conference hotline • numbers vary by town. (svdprockfordcouncil.org)
• United Way / 211 Illinois • Search and contact 211 statewide • 211 or text ZIP to 898211. (211illinois.org)
• Greater Chicago Food Depository • Find Food map • 773‑247‑3663 (admin) • 4100 W Ann Lurie Pl, Chicago. (chicagosfoodbank.org)
• Northern Illinois Food Bank • Get Groceries & Resources • Geneva 630‑443‑6910; other centers listed online. (solvehungertoday.org)
• Eastern Illinois Foodbank • Find Help • 217‑328‑3663 • 2405 N Shore Dr, Urbana. (eifoodbank.org)
• Share Our Spare (Chicago region) • How to get diapers/baby supplies via partners • 773‑657‑3117 • 3800 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago. (shareourspare.org)
• Diaper Bank of Chicago • Contact & info • (312) 880‑7195. (diaperchicago.org)
• Maryville Crisis Nursery (Chicago) • 24/7 helpline • 773‑205‑3637 • 6650 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago. (maryville-crisis-nursery.constantcontactsites.com)
• DuPagePads (interim housing) • Need Help • 630‑682‑3846 (opt 1) • 703 W Liberty Dr, Wheaton. (dupagepads.org)
• CommunityHealth (free clinic) • Connect with us • New patient 773‑969‑5924 • 2611 W Chicago Ave, Chicago. (communityhealth.org)
• CARPLS Legal Aid Hotline (Cook) • Services & hours • 312‑738‑9200. (carpls.org)
• Prairie State Legal Services • Office list & intake • Phones vary by county (e.g., West Suburban 630‑690‑2130). (pslegal.org)
• Land of Lincoln Legal Aid • Contact & intake • 877‑342‑7891. (lincolnlegal.org)
• Nicor Gas Sharing Program (via Salvation Army) • Program details & income grid • Apply at your local Salvation Army. (nicorgas.com)
• Peoples Gas Share the Warmth (via CEDA) • Program page • Apply via CEDA 800‑571‑2332. (peoplesgasdelivery.com)
• Warm Neighbors Cool Friends (Ameren IL) • Apply & eligibility • Online pre‑qualify; partner agency list. (warmneighborscoolfriends.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Illinois food banks, Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, United Way/211, free clinic networks, and established nonprofits. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official and well‑established sources, reviewed regularly, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

We verify services against primary sources (official charity pages, state/municipal sites) and maintain change‑tracking. For example: 211 Illinois statewide info (2024 impact metrics), hotline numbers, and program updates (e.g., GCFD diaper program sunset on June 30, 2025) were verified from official pages above. (211illinois.org, chicagosfoodbank.org)

If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we will investigate within 48 hours (urgent corrections in 24 hours).

Disclaimer

• Details (amounts, hours, maps, eligibility) can change without notice. Always confirm with the agency before traveling or applying.
• Health and safety resources here are general. For emergencies, call 911 or the Illinois DV Hotline 877‑863‑6338. (callforchange.info)
• We do not collect personal data from this page. Keep your devices secure. If you’re in a DV situation, use a safe device and clear your browser history after visiting help sites.
• This guide is informational and not legal advice. For legal advice, contact the legal aid organizations listed.

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Notes on Sources and Figures

• 211 Illinois: statewide coverage, how to contact, and 2024 impact figures. (211illinois.org)
• Chicago DV Hotline number and city confirmation. (callforchange.info, chicago.gov)
• Food banks and meal distribution facts. (chicagosfoodbank.org, solvehungertoday.org, eifoodbank.org)
• Utility fund dollar amounts and timelines. (nicorgas.com, peoplesgasdelivery.com, warmneighborscoolfriends.org)
• Poverty context (Illinois overall and female‑headed households with children). (census.gov, americashealthrankings.org)
• 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines. (aspe.hhs.gov)

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Final Tip

Keep a one‑page “go bag” folder with copies/photos of IDs, kid’s birth certificates, bills, notices, and your contact list (shelters, 211, legal aid). It saves hours when you have to re‑explain your situation.

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🏛️More Illinois Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Illinois

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery