The north and northwest suburbs of Chicago is not generally perceived as an area that would have a large population of families struggling with homelessness and domestic violence, but the reality is that WINGS receives over 1,000 calls each year for assistance. Women and children in this area face tremendous obstacles. The cost for housing and child-care is very high, and there are few resources available to assist those in need.   

Did you know? 

• WINGS operates 18 transitional homes and 3 permanent supportive housing units in north and northwest suburban Cook County, IL and portions of Lake County in Barrington, IL.

• WINGS’ 15,000 square foot Safe House served 259 guests (131 children and 128 women) with 8,622 nights of shelter in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2010.

• During the same period, WINGS provided 30,685 nights of transitional housing, food and supportive services for 161 clients (57 children and 104 women).

• Another 136 women and children not residing in WINGS housing received a total 3,265 hours of counseling and safety planning through WINGS’ Clinical Outreach program.