Cook County Independent Living Program

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 (GED) certificate to participate. In this program they receive assistance to obtain and maintain a job, participate in higher education; they also receive intensive case management services.

Child, Youth and Family Services

Family-Based Services Department

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 the North Side of Chicago, and the 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.).

Child, Youth and Family Services

Lake County Independent Living Program

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 (GED) certificate to participate. In this program they receive assistance to obtain and maintain a job, participate in higher education; they also receive intensive case management services.

Child, Youth and Family Services