Chicago alder unveils new plan to address homelessness

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — A new city initiative offers a long-term solution for those living in a homeless encampment in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood.

Chicago's 26th ward Alderman Jesse Fuentes has announced a plan to relocate all tent encampment residents living in Humboldt Park.

The 2024 Humboldt Park Encampment Initiative will provide weekly services including medical evaluations, legal counseling, shelter placement, and more.

The initiative is in collaboration with the Mayor’s office, the Department of Family Support Services, and Chief Homelessness Officer Sendy Soto to house encampment residents by the end of the year.

An accelerated program is planned for the last week of September.

The Alderman's office says there's about 60 units to move.

“My office has been working closely with the Illinois Coalition for the Homeless to ensure that residents’ transitions from the park to housing is smooth, and they have committed to organizing gatherings so that folks can continue to gather in safe, social spaces,” Fuentes said in a letter to residents.

The city is working to ensure a smooth transition before the winter.

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