IWT Programs

Maria Shelter
It's hard to change a lifetime of adversity in the four months that a woman and her children stay at Maria Shelter. But by learning the necessary skills to live an independent, secure life, our residents begin the journey from homelessness to self-sufficiency.

In addition to food and shelter, women receive medical and psychological assessment and treatment, counseling, domestic violence awareness training, financial management, and life skills training. Their children can attend local public schools. Our case manager helps women develop goals, both professional and personal, and our onsite counselor is available to help women cope with life's challenges. Maria Shelter offers a staffed computer learning center with GED and educational software as well as art and music therapy. Through our Reestablishment Fund, we help women obtain the documents they need to attain employment and to gain access to government services, including housing vouchers and medical care

We strive to connect the women with existing services and benefits by collaborating with dozens of outside organizations ranging from job training to psychological and medical service providers to housing organizations. Through these relationships, the women are able to receive the highest quality services at little or no cost.

Vincennes Senior Center
More than 100 men and women from the neighborhood enjoy exercise, classes, and a variety of activities each week at the Vincennes Senior Center. From learning how to file their taxes online to having their blood pressure taken, the area's senior citizens look forward to the companionship and assistance they know they'll find at the center. Senior citizens also receive a hot meal provided by the Chicago Department of Aging.