Franciscan Outreach is seeking special use approval for the property located at 2508 West 21st Street to allow the preservation, reactivation and rehabilitation of the existing building at the property in order to establish a transitional shelter with 81 non-congregate shelter beds, 36 congregate flex beds, and case management and health counseling offices within the existing 1 and 2-story building. This is a chance to provide some much needed transitional housing for some of our most vulnerable neighbors.

Founded in 1963, Franciscan Outreach is a charitable organization that provides shelter and supportive services to Chicagoans experiencing housing insecurity. They operate three existing shelters that account for one-quarter of Chicago’s shelter beds for single individuals. Its dedicated staff members and volunteers have welcomed thousands of men and women to its centers, providing healthy meals, warm beds, and critical services that affirm their dignity and empower them to find stability and permanent housing.

Franciscan Outreach was selected as a grantee finalist through the Department of Housing (“DOH”) Non-Congregate Shelter Acquisition Program. It is anticipated that DOH will provide financial and technical support for the Applicant’s acquisition of the Property and establishment of the Proposed Shelter.