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HOMELESSNESS

We work to end homelessness in Chicago by advocating for stronger, more coordinated systems that provide stable housing.

The average life expectancy in the U.S. is about 79 years old. If you’re chronically homeless, it’s between 42 and 52. Since 2002, Michael Reese has been supporting some of the most influential work being done in the United States to improve the health of those experiencing homelessness.

Our Work With Center for Housing and Health

In 2010, Michael Reese, alongside several other members of the philanthropic community, co-funded the launch of the Center for Housing and Health, an organization working to bridge the housing and health care systems to improve the lives of Chicagoans experiencing homelessness. 

The Center for Housing and Health approaches homelessness with a “Housing First” philosophy, linking people experiencing homelessness to safe and affordable permanent housing quickly and with minimal barriers so people can start their journey to a healthier life sooner.

In 2019, the Center for Housing and Health offered permanent supportive housing to 263 households, including 45 families and 77 children. 95% of those households were stably housed for 12 months or longer.  

In 2020, Michael Reese launched the incubation of Chicago Funders Together to End Homelessness, a local chapter of the national Funders Together to End Homelessness. This incubation effort brings nearly 30 Chicago-area funders together to work collaboratively on issues related to housing stability and homelessness in Chicagoland. Over the last three years, Chicago Funders Together to End Homelesness funders have collectively invested nearly $40 million in direct services, research, advocacy and systems building for people experiencing homelessness in Chicago.

Stay up to date on all the ways we are working to ensure
all Chicagoans can live healthy lives