651 W. Lake Street
Chicago, IL 60661
Annie Rufus
Director
Phone: (312) 382-2505
Fax: (312) 258-1839

Intact Family Services Program

Home-based services to families referred by the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services due to allegations of child abuse and neglect. The goal is to work with the families to ensure the safety and well being of children, address the issues that place the children at risk, and prevent the need for foster care placement. Service area is the DCFS Cook North Region (primarily north side of Chicago, north and northwest suburbs).

Extended Family Support Services

Home-based, short-term services (around 2-3 months) to extended family members who are caring for related minor children (often grandchildren, niece/nephew relationships). Cases are referred by the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services and cannot have current issues of abuse/neglect. The relatives are voluntarily caring for the children and are provided assistance to obtain private guardianship of the children, service referrals, as well as financial assistance for concrete service needs (i.e. clothing, probate court fees, utility bills, furniture for the children, school fees, etc.).

Independent Living Program

Cook County Independent Living Program
Jadonal E. Ford Center
11255 S. Michigan
Chicago, IL 60628
Intake: (773) 995-1737

Lake County Independent Living Program
671 S. Lewis
Waukegan, IL 60085
Darlene Shappee
Director
Phone: (847) 782-4221

Program serves Cook and Lake Counties. Youth (male and female) who are wards of the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services and are aged 18 up to age 20 are placed into their own apartment with the goal of developing skills so they can successfully transition to independence upon emancipation from state custody at age 21. Youth must have a high school diploma or general education equivalency certificate to participate in this program where they receive assistance to obtain and maintain a job, participate in higher education and intensive case management services.

Division of Child, Youth and Family Services