Humboldt Park Tent Encampment Initiative
Since elected to office, Alderperson Jessie Fuentes has been advocating for resources for unhoused neighbors in Humboldt Park.
The Humboldt Park Tent Encampment Initiative’s mission is to connect residents of the Humboldt Park tent encampment to stable housing, permanent shelter, and supportive services. Over 18 months this initiative has dedicated efforts to address systemic barriers, provide individualized care, and ensure every person has access to dignified and secure living situations. It represents a significant step forward in addressing homelessness with compassion and care.
FAQs
Housing Barriers: Rising rents and gentrification have displaced many long-time residents.
Additionally, the 26th Ward currently lacks a city-run shelter to provide immediate assistance.
Service Gaps: Limited access to coordinated care for mental health, medical needs, and employment.
Complex Needs: Some residents may require multiple services, including mental health care, medical treatment, and job search assistance.
Since May 2023, Alderperson Jessie Fuentes has led efforts to secure resources for the unhoused, partnering with city departments and community organizations to provide direct wraparound services and coordinated cleanings.
Alderperson Fuentes has also been working closely with the Orange Tent Project, Chicago Coalition to End Homelessness, and the Illinois Union of the Homeless regarding strategy and communication with residents of the encampment.
Accelerated Moving Events (AME’s) have offered housing to 106 households to date. AME’s also provide wraparound services like mental health care and case management.
As part of the December 6, 2024 Moving Day, 39 households moved into apartments, 38 moved into congregate and non-congregate shelters, hotel rooms or SROs, five moved in with family, and five chose their own relocation plans.
These efforts were not an eviction, and none of the unhoused residents were arrested. It has been a deeply intentional, housing-first strategy rooted in the unwavering belief that housing is a human right.
Like any unhoused new arrival, they may submit a request for shelter through CHI311 or visit one of three locations for more information related to their specific situation.
- Landing Zone, 800 S Desplaines St, opens at 8:00am
- City of Chicago New Arrivals Website
- Resource Guide for New Arrivals in Chicago - English
- Guía de recursos para migrantes y solicitantes de asilo a Chicago - Español
- Illinois Welcoming Center
- Erie Neighborhood House, 1347 W Erie St, opens at 8:00am
- La Casa Norte, 3533 W North Ave, opens at 9:00am
Following the Moving Day, the Chicago Police Department and Chicago Park District will enforce Chicago Municipal Code section 10-36-185 (“Enforcement of Chicago Park District Ordinance”) which prohibits overnight stays and erecting any tent or structure.
CPK staff will regularly supervise the park and log engagement. Steps for enforcement include:
- Observing tents and notifying the Chicago Park District Security team.
- Encouraging visitors to accept shelter services or relocate.
- Enforcement stickers placed on tents notifying removal within 24 hours.
- Coordinated removal by CPK Landscape and CPD Affinity Officers after the notification period.
Note: CPD does not require a permit to enter/open tents and enforce relocation.
Non-Congregate Shelter: Developing a shelter site at 2704 W North Avenue for private, safer accommodations.
Affordable Housing: Developing over 450 new affordable units and ensuring zero-income housing options.
Rehabilitated CHA Units: Working with the new CHA CEO to restore vacant units in the 26th Ward for immediate use.
Volunteer in cleanup events or contribute to community outreach by connecting with the 26th Ward Office at info@the26thward.org.
Donate to organizations that work to address homelessness:
Media Mentions
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: December 9, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: December 6, 2024
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Media Outlet: WBEZ
Date: December 6, 2024
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Media Outlet: Chicago Tribune
Date: December 6, 2024
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Media Outlet: Chicago Tribune
Date: December 6, 2024
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Media Outlet: Chicago Tribune
Date: December 5, 2024
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Media Outlet: WBEZ
Date: December 4, 2024
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Media Outlet: Chicago Tribune
Date: December 4, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: November 26, 2024
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Media Outlet: WBEZ
Date: October 17, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: October 7, 2024
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Media Outlet: WBEZ
Date: September 20, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: September 18, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: September 13, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: July 31, 2024
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Media Outlet: WTTW
Date: June 7, 2024
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Media Outlet: Centro de Periodismo Investigativo
Date: May 16, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: January 24, 2024
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Media Outlet: Block Club Chicago
Date: January 11, 2024
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Media Outlet: WTTW
Date: December 1, 2023
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Media Outlet: WTTW
Date: November 7, 2023
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Media Outlet: WTTW
Date: July 27, 2023
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