Chicago Coalition for the Homeless received nearly $1,500 in donations in response to a fire that occurred at a homeless encampment near Belmont and Kedzie avenues earlier this month.
The October 5 fire destroyed several residents’ personal belongings, including tents, blankets, mattresses, clothing, and other necessities for living on the street. Three people also suffered minor injuries.
This incident was the latest in a string of fires at encampments and attacks against homeless individuals in Chicago over the last few months.
CCH outreach staff purchased Aldi gift cards with the money collected through our website, and distributed them to the twelve residents of the encampment who were affected by the fire.
“Ultimately we want people to know this type of stuff is going on and that’s why there is an importance for affordable housing,” Outreach Worker Ali Simmons told Block Club Chicago. “You can’t protect people out here. The only way we can stop this from happening is by putting people in their own places.”
Many thanks to Avondale Mutual Aid, who also organized relief efforts, collecting and distributing monetary and in-kind donations for the encampment residents.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless is now Chicago Coalition to end Homelessness (CCH).