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CHIL News & Stories
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A Letter from Susan | July 2026
Dear Friends, July marks the beginning of a new fiscal year at Covenant House Illinois—a natural moment to reflect on where we've been, celebrate what we've accomplished together, and look ahead to the work that still lies before us. The past year was one of growth, transition, and resilience. We welcomed enthusiastic and talented members of our Executive Leadership Team including our Chief Program Officer, Willis Francis, and our Chief Operating Officer, Shivonnia “Shay” Dic
Jul 29
What Happens When a Youth Walks Through Our Doors?
For a young person experiencing homelessness, walking through the doors of Covenant House Illinois can be a life-changing moment. It can also be a difficult one. Many of the youth who come to us have spent nights without a safe place to sleep. Some have been navigating unstable housing, sleeping on a friend's couch, or moving from place to place. Others may be experiencing homelessness for the first time and may not know what to expect. When a youth walks through our doors, o
Jul 28
Youth Spotlight: Sonmontez
When Sonmontez left Tallahassee and moved to Chicago in July 2023, he came with determination and a vision for a better future. “I knew there would be more opportunities for me in Chicago,” Sonmontez said. “I just wanted a chance to build something for myself.” After arriving in the city, Sonmontez spent time bouncing between shelters while trying to figure out his next steps. Eventually, he connected with Covenant House Illinois and entered CHIL’s residential program. Despit
May 28
Youth Spotlight: Deo
When Deo first came to Covenant House Illinois in April 2023, he was not looking for much. A friend had told him about the drop-in center, and after losing his apartment, he needed a place to land. Originally from Harvey, he had been moving between the south suburbs and the city for years, trying to figure out his next step. He started in CHIL's drop-in center, then moved into our Interim Housing Program in June 2023. By June 2024, he was selected to transition into Rights of
Mar 26
Youth Spotlight: J
J arrived in Chicago with no safety net. He came from North Carolina looking for opportunity, but also looking for direction. By the time he was 17, he had lost both of his parents. What followed was a long stretch of asking himself what kind of life he wanted to build and where he might be able to start fresh. Chicago felt like a place where something exciting could happen. After calling a few shelters, J learned about Covenant House, first hearing about the site in Detroit
Feb 27
Youth Spotlight: Will
Will, 22, has spent his life on the west side of Chicago near Austin. Last fall, he found himself in a period of uncertainty, unsure of what his next steps would look like. A friend told him about Covenant House Illinois, and although he felt hesitant, he decided to stop by the drop-in center. "It was overwhelming being here at first," recalls Will. "Everyone was dealing with their own situations, and I didn't know where I fit in." Over time, however, he learned to take thing
Jan 30
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