Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson Announces Equitable Transition to a One System Initiative
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CHICAGO ~ Chicago Implements Changes to Consolidate Shelter System and Move Towards One System Initiative

The City of Chicago has announced a series of changes aimed at consolidating the New Arrivals shelter system, accelerating the resettlement of current shelter residents, and transitioning towards a unified sheltering system for all Chicagoans. These changes come as the city experiences a sharp decline in migration and faces budget constraints.

Mayor Brandon Johnson stated, "This transition is in line with the sharp decline in migration to Chicago and our current budget realities. We continue the dedicated work with our agencies and community partners as we have from the beginning to usher in the next phase." The transition will begin on October 21, 2024, and will continue through the end of the calendar year.

The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) will lead the operational transition and continue to administer shelter services. They will also work with contractors to provide support services and facilitate connections for sponsors outside of Chicago. Additionally, they will offer access to resources such as coats, food, and vaccinations at the State intake center. Those arriving in Chicago can request shelter through the 311 system and will be provided with a resource guide containing information about City Key, community-based organizations, food pantries, legal services, and more.

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Some of the changes include eliminating 30-day shelter extensions based on "Public Benefit enrollment" for anyone currently in or entering into the New Arrivals shelter system. The Landing Zone will now only accept first-time placements for families and singles who have been in the country for 30 days or less. The hours of operation for the Landing Zone will also change to reflect those of the State Intake Center by November 1st, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Landing Zone and State intake center will close by December 31st.

To meet budget targets, there will also be a decompression schedule implemented to reduce the number of City-funded beds to 2,100 by the end of 2024. Deputy Mayor for Immigration, Migrant and Refugee Rights Beatriz Ponce de Leon stated, "We forged a partnership with the State and Cook County, resulting in new investments and a more inclusive, regional approach." She also emphasized the need for a unified shelter system and committed to working with the State and advocates to achieve the One System Initiative.

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The Johnson Administration recognizes the success of the New Arrivals program and thanks DFSS Commissioner Brandie Knazze, Deputy Mayor Ponce de Leon, Chief Homelessness Officer Sendy Soto, Office of Emergency Management Director Jose Tirado, and their teams for their dedication. In January 2025, there will only be one shelter system in place and all funding for shelter operations will go towards DFSS Homeless Services. Chief Homelessness Officer Soto will lead efforts to transform City shelter services with a 5-year plan that includes gradually combining shelter residents in the shift to OSI and enhancing services for all people experiencing housing instability in Chicago.

The City of Chicago has faced an unprecedented humanitarian crisis at the Texas border initiated by Republican Governor Greg Abbott's actions. However, through community care and support from various agencies and partners, Chicago has successfully welcomed nearly 50,000 new arrivals. The changes being implemented aim to create a more cost-effective, equitable, and strategic approach towards addressing homelessness for all who need support in Chicago.

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