How To Support the New Arrivals from Texas

 

Westchester, Ill. – The City of Chicago welcomed migrants bused from Texas to Chicago last week. In collaboration with local, state, federal and community partners, the city ensured these migrants had access to shelter, food, and other resources.

"Illinois is and will remain a welcoming state," said House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch. "Throughout our history, people from all parts of the world have found a home in Illinois. That's why I was the lead sponsor of the Trust Act in 2017 and under my Speakership we have strengthened that law because immigrants deserve safety, respect, and opportunity.

We will lead and grow when other states choose to withdraw and regress. We will choose compassion when others choose bigotry."

Texas is expected to continue busing migrants to Chicago. Illinois remains committed to providing support and resources during this transition period. Because of this, the City of Chicago has set up a website with information on how to become a volunteer or make a donation at Chicago.gov/Support.

Many people in Chicago and across the state have begun collecting donations. A list of essential items that will be accepted are as follows:

  • Gift cards

  • New clothing (including cold weather clothing, underwear is a priority)

  • Athletic shoes

  • New hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, shampoo)

  • Feminine hygiene products

  • Diapers

  • Reusable bags (duffle bags and suitcases)

  • Backpacks

  • Baby formula

  • Blankets

  • Books for kids (Spanish)

  • Strollers

Please note that food or used items will not be accepted. For additional inquiries, please email DONATIONS@cityofchicago.org.

In-Home COVID-19 Vaccine Option

On September 1, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approved an updated COVID-19 booster for anyone 12 or older who has completed their primary vaccine series. For most people, the CDC is recommending getting an updated booster at least two months after your last shot or booster.

Although the booster is available to anyone 12 or older, for older adults, the importance of staying up to date on their COVID vaccination and boosters is critical. They are still at a higher risk for hospitalization and death from COVID if unvaccinated, and this updated booster helps restore protection against new variants.

If you or someone you love needs a booster brought to their home, AgeOptions has partnered with CIMPAR to offer in-home vaccines to homebound people in Suburban Cook County. CIMPAR is able to offer the updated booster to qualified individuals.

To qualify for an in-home vaccination or booster from AgeOptions, a person must:

  • Live in suburban Cook County (including all areas covered by CCDPH, Evanston, Oak Park, Skokie, and Stickney)

  • Need an initial vaccine or booster

  • Be 60 years or older

To make a referral for someone to receive this service, you can fill out the referral form here.

 
Andrea Garcia