Often funding that helps people keep their housing is called homelessness prevention or foreclosure assistance for homeowners. Some places refer to homelessness prevention as short term help, because the funding is meant to solve a problem quickly and with one check. A number of different agencies can help people who are behind on rent and/or utilities so that they do not lose their housing, with examples linked below.
Homelessness Prevention for Renters
Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Homelessness Prevention
IHDA has rental assistance opportunities for people with a pending case in eviction court and can link you to a provider if you are at risk of eviction but not yet in court proceedings.
Community Action Agencies
Community Action Agency has ways you can locate resources in your county to learn about homelessness prevention programs and a wide variety of additional supports including rental and utility assistance. Many are able to link households to food, shelter, and employment training and placement as well. Every county in IL is connected with a Community Action Agency (CAA)
Find a Provider with Division of Human Services Prevention Funding
IDHS: FY 25 Homeless Prevention Providers:
General: Dial 211 or call IDHS Helpline at 1-833-2-FIND-HELP (1-833-234-6343) or United Way Location Finder: United Ways in Illinois
Cook County: call 1-877-426-6515 (8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday) or go online
Utility Assistance
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP helps low-income renters pay for energy such as gas, propane, and electricity. To find a Community Action Agency near you providing this support and learn more about if you qualify, please click here.
Population Specific Resources
Veterans
If you served in the United States military, please visit our Veterans Page to learn about housing options.
Seniors
Eldercare Assistance: This site serves as a gateway to a wide range of resources for seniors, their families, and caregivers, focusing on local services and support for various needs, including housing assistance. Call or text 1-800-677-1116 for help.
Persons Experiencing Violence
IL Domestic Violence Hotline - 1-877-TO END DV or 1-877-863-6338 (Voice)
For domestic violence assistance in Chicago, call 3-1-1 for assistance by phone.
Foreclosure Assistance for Homeowners
The Illinois Housing Development Authority can help guide you to needed support if you are in danger of losing the home you own. Click here to view available resources. Please note that all foreclosure assistance is free, including housing counseling.
Weatherization Programs
For some households, energy bills cause significant financial stress. Click here to learn about The Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program for low income households to see if you qualify and how to apply online or in-person. On average, across the state, participants saved 25% on energy bills after improvements made to their homes that were funded by this program.