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SNAP (Food Stamps) Application:

mRelief is a non-profit that can help you sign up for food stamps.  Find out if you qualify and start your application here

SNAP Work Requirements Currently Suspended

Under the recent Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) waiver, work requirements are still suspended through 10/31/2023 based on Illinois' high unemployment rate. 

  1. Questions about your individual benefits can be answered by Illinois Department of Human Services by calling 1-800-843-6154.
  2. Food pantries are an option to supplementing a household’s food budget.  Great Chicago Food Depository and Feeding America have a “pantry locator” tool on their websites. 

FREE - Summer Food Service Program – CHA Locations

Please check back for Summer 2024 locations. 

CHA's Summer Food Service Program provides FREE breakfast and lunch in partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository thanks to grant funding from the Illinois State Board of Education (IBSE) and the USDA.

There is no cost.  All summer meals offered through the  ISBE/USDA Summer Food Service Program sites are FREE to youth ages 18 and younger and to persons 18 – 21 who have a mental or physical disability.  The program typically runs from mid-June through the end of August.  Food distribution is handled by CHA residents who are hired as Nutrition Aides through the Transitional Jobs Program, funded by CHA.

If you are an organization interested in sponsoring a Summer Feeding site in your community, visit the Illinois State Board of Education’s website to apply. 

CHA's Golden Diner Partnership with Chicago's Department of Family & Support Services offers healthy meals citywide for Chicago's seniors

    Many older adults do not want to eat alone. The Golden Diners Program offers them a way to get a healthy meal each day and enjoy the company of friends. Hot, nutritious lunches are served to older adults (over 60 years of age) at over 50 sites throughout Chicago, including 20 CHA Senior Buildings. In addition to enjoying a meal with friends and neighbors, seniors can participate in the many activities scheduled at the sites. For instance, health education sessions, exercise classes, and speakers are sometimes offered at sites.

    THE GREATER CHICAGO FOOD DEPOSITORY PROVIDES SENIORS WITH HEALTHY FOOD OPTIONS:

    The Greater Chicago Food Depository works with CHA and our Service Provider to provide two food programs for CHA older adults at select locations.

    1. Resident and Produce Markets offer on-site groceries at senior building s to help residents access nutritious food to prepare in their homes.
    2. Commodities Supplemental Food Program for Older Adults, provides food boxes with healthy groceries full of key nutrients such as Vitamins A and C, calcium and iron.

    Senior residents should connect with the resident service coordinator (RSC) for more information on how to participate in these programs.