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Welcome to Finding Your Way

This is our second edition. We received huge amounts of praise for our first edition.
But, also, many organizations and services were not included. We are particularly
grateful to the members of the Champaign County Reentry Council and the Cun-
ningham Township Supervisor’s Office (especially Danielle Chynoweth) for their
contributions to this edition. A special salute also to Sharon Monday for editing
and providing so many useful changes to improve the guide.

F
irstFollowers Reentry Program has produced Finding Your Way to pro-
vide assistance to those in our community who have been incarcerated
or have a criminal conviction. Recognizing the many challenges such
individuals and their loved ones face, we have tried to list resources here that
focus on key needs: getting an I.D., accessing housing and employment, find-
ing a place to worship or an opportunity for further education.
We have not focused on one of the most important issues: employment.
In that regard, there are just too many sources to list. For finding employment,
please contact us. The best way to reach us is to visit us during our drop-in
center hours, Tuesday and Thursday, 1 to 5 p.m. at Bethel AME Church, 401 E.
Park St., Champaign. During drop-in hours we provide individual mentoring,
assistance with employment searches, & help connect you to many of the
resources in this guide. Keep in mind that although Bethel AME has been kind
enough to let us use their facilities, we are open to people of all faiths and
persuasions.
If you can’t make it to the drop-in center, please contact us via the following:
Email: firstfollowerscu@gmail.com
Facebook: FirstFollowers Champaign-Urbana

You can also find out more about FirstFollowers by visiting our website:
www.firstfollowersreentry.com
Lastly, we welcome feedback on our guide. While we have tried to keep
things up to date, some information contained here may be subject to
change. Please let us know if we need to correct or update any of our entries.
F
irstFollowers opened our drop-in center in March of 2015. The individuals we
have been fortunate to serve have typically faced similar challenges: obstacles
to employment, housing restrictions, and lack of the necessary documents to
acquire an ID. Many have also come to us seeking education and job training oppor-
tunities, access to relief services, and information regarding expungement and record
sealing.
During our time of service, we have recognized the absence of useful sources of in-
formation about services and opportunities for our constituency. In response, we have
created Finding Your Way to provide assistance to those reentering the Champaign
County community.
This guide has been a collective effort. FirstFollowers extends a special thank you to
University of Illinois professor Ken Salo and his Spring 2017 Urban and Regional Plan-
ning class. Their collaboration with us and eagerness for community engagement gave
birth to this guide. We are especially grateful to those students who did the bulk of the
research: Chris Miner, Sarah Abu-Taleb, Jane Eagleton, Amorita Falcon and Janice Hsu.
We also must acknowledge the valuable contributions of FirstFollowers’ mentors who
provided their critique and insider knowledge, especially Bethany Britton, Perry Cline,
Tammy Bond, Tamika Davis and Charles Davidson.
Lastly our guide would not have been possible without the editing and design exper-
tise of Cope Cumpston, the photography skills of Linda Kwon, the proofreading of Al
Davis and financial support from the Solidarity Committee of the Graduate Employees’
Organization (GEO) at the University of Illinois.
FirstFollowers believes this resource guide will serve as a tool that will guide
individuals to much needed support, opportunity, and inspiration. Again, we send a
great thank you to all who have made this possible!

Best Regards,

Marlon Mitchell and James Kilgore


Co-Directors, FirstFollowers
Contents

 1. Identification  2

 2. Housing  3

 3. Employment  6

  4. Child Care & Family Services  6

  5. Food Service & Pantries  11

 6. Clothing  13

  7. Counseling & Substance Abuse


Treatment 14

  8. Health Care  16

 9. Transportation  18

10. Places of Worship  18


11. Libraries 20

12. Adult Education  20

13. Legal Services  21

14. General Resource Assistance  22

15. Know Your Rights   24

© FirstFollowers 2017

Individuals and organizations are free to reproduce


these materials for non-profit use. Please ask us for
permission and acknowledge FirstFollowers as the
source.
1. Identification
Brookens Administrative Center (Birth Certificate)
In the following website you will find everything that you need to know
about applying for a birth certificate and how you can order one. If you or
someone you know needs a copy of a birth certificate it would be best to
visit the Champaign County Clerk.
1776 E Washington St, Urbana, IL 61802
Contact: (217) 384-3776
Service Hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 4:30pm
Website: https://www.champaigncountyclerk.com/vitals/birth.php
If you were not born in Champaign County, you will need to go to the
county that you were born in, or check the Illinois State Registry.
Contact: (800) 252-8980
Website: http://www.idph.state.il.us/vitalrecords/births/Pages/default.htm

US Social Security Administration Office (Social Security Card)


Works with other Federal agencies to provide information about available
services such as help finding a job or applying for possible benefits such as
cash benefits, health care, food, and housing.
101 S Country Fair Dr, Champaign, IL 61821
Contact: (877) 819-2593
Service Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday,
Friday 9am-4pm; Wednesday 9am-12pm
Website: https://www.ssa.gov/reentry/

Department of Motor Vehicles (Driver’s License/State ID)


The DMV is where you go to procure your State ID and/or Driver’s License.
One of these identification cards is vital in attaining many services, so
attaining ID should be a priority. A state ID will cost you $20 and a driver’s
license will cost you $30.
Round Barn Center, 2012 Round Barn Road, Champaign,
IL 61821
Contact: (217) 278-3344
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm ,
Saturday 7:30am-12:00pm, Sunday-Monday closed
421 South Murray, Rantoul, IL 61866
Contact: (217) 892-8773
Hours: Monday-Friday
Tuesday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm , Saturday 7:30am-12:00pm, Sun-Mon closed
Champaign County Clerk-Voter Registration Card
A voter registration card will often serve as a valid I.D. Anyone who is not
currently incarcerated in Illinois is eligible to vote, regardless of background
or parole status.
Brookens Administration Center, 1776 E. Washington, Urbana
Contact: 217 384-3720
Hours-Monday-Friday 8-4:30
1776 E. Washington, Urbana
Free ID: A person can get free I.D. if they are considered homeless. They
need to verify this by getting a “Homeless Status Certification” from a
local agency such as the Urbana Township or Daily Bread Soup Kitchen.

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St. Jude Catholic Worker (Drop-In Center)
Assistance with State ID on Tuesdays, 1-4 pm
Daily Bread Soup Kitchen
Full details on page 7. Assistance with State ID’s and in and out of state
birth certificates on second Wednesday, 10:30 am-noon

2. Housing
PACE - Center for Independent Living
PACE is a program run by and for people with disabilities. If you are
struggling with disabilities PACE has the potential to help you achieve or
maintain independent living.
1317 E Florida Ave, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 344-5433
Service Hours: Call for more information
Website: http://pacecil.org/general-services/

C-U @ Home
C-U at Home engages and mobilizes our community to house and support
the most vulnerable homeless on their journey of healing and restoration.
They currently provide three homes (Recovery House, Family House, and
Women’s House) which allow for people in crisis to re-establish their lives.
Spaces are very limited.
34 E Green St, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 819-4569
Service Hours: Tuesday to Friday 12pm-5pm
Website: http://www.cuathome.us/

Housing Authority of Champaign County


The Housing Authority provides housing to low income families, individuals
and seniors. Applications are only taken at certain times and typically there
is a long wait to get a house through them. In the past, they have often
banned people with certain criminal convictions.
205 W Park Ave, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 378-7100
Service Hours: Monday to Friday 8am-5pm
Website: http://www.hacc.net/about/about.htm

Courage Connection
Courage Connection Domestic Violence Services provides help to anyone
experiencing domestic violence. They provide 3 houses for displaced abuse
victims, as well as 6 affordable housing projects. Shelter and services are
confidential and free-of-charge.
508 East Church Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 352-7151
Service Hours: Monday-Saturday 24 hours, Sunday - closed
Website: https://courageconnection.org/

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Merci’s Refuge (Women)
Merci’s Refuge offers residential programs to “women in crisis who desire
to rise to their created purpose.” This is a new program of the Pregnancy
Resource Center, and aims to give women and their families the opportunity
to make lasting change.
209 E Wilber Avenue, Champaign, IL 61822
Contact (217) 378-4045
Service Hours: Please call.

The Times Center


The Times Center is a residential transition center with very limited capacity.
Dependent upon funding, various services might be offered. Call first.
70 E Washington Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 398-7785
Service Hours: Please call.

Restoration Urban Ministries


While providing participants with temporary shelter, food, and child care,
this organization also provides self-sufficiency courses, job training and
counseling,substance recovery groups and counseling from licensed
counselors. Each participant is paired with a spiritual mentor, is required
to attend morning devotions and a weekend church service, and is
encouraged to participate in weekly Bible studies.
1213 Parkland Court, PO Box 3277, Champaign, IL 61826
(217) 355-2662
Website: http://restorationurbanministries.net/programs-services/
transitional-housing-program/

Men’s & Women’s Safe House -


Canaan Development Foundation
Cannan offers separate 12-month live-in Men’s SAFE House and Women’s
SAFE House programs that incorporate a structured daily regiment of: G.E.D.
and/or adult education, devotions, group therapy, personal counseling,
volunteer work projects, evening community-wide personal enrichment
courses, and weekly worship services.
Administrative Office: 404 W Main Street, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 367-2158
Email: canaanbaptist@sbcglobal.net

Champaign-Urbana Tenant Union


Provides assistance locating affordable housing and with landlord tenant
problems. They produce a monthly list of available, affordable housing.
44 E Main Street, Lincoln Building, suite 208, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 352-6220
Service Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-4:00pm

Jesus is the Way Prison Ministry (Rantoul)


Offers housing for men upon their release from Illinois Department of
Corrections at their site in Rantoul. They offer services such as counseling,
relapse prevention, GED preparation, and employment workshops.
602 Liberty Ave , Rantoul 61866
Contact: (217) 892 4044

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Abundant Life in Christ II, Inc. 4Life Ministry
Ann’s House offers housing to women with non-violent, non-sexual offenses
and re-entry support.
Contact: Evangelist Eloris Nash (217) 552-1177
Email: abundant_life2@mail.com
Write: P.O. Box 8853, Champaign, IL 61821

Austin’s Place
Austin’s Place is the only winter emergency shelter for single women in
Champaign County. Austin’s Place operates solely on volunteer effort –
from volunteers who stay overnight, transport guests, do laundry, make
phone calls, etc. The shelter is generally open mid December to mid March.
Note: Women must contact Courage Connection for an appointment to be
admitted into Austin’s Place. (see page 3 for Courage Connection.)
Alternatively contact
First United Methodist Church (FUMC) of Champaign
210 W. Church St., Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (FUMC) (217) 356-9078

Men’s Winter Shelter


Winter emergency shelter for men beginning Dec. 1-March 31st.
No pre-registration required.
The Location of the 2017-2018 Shelter is New Covenant Fellowship Church,
corner of Randolph and White Streets, Champaign
Contact: First United Methodist Church (FUMC) (217) 356-9078
Hours: 9:30pm – 6:30am

Merci’s Refuge
Merci’s Refuge is not simply a place to live. The primary purpose of MR is
to provide women a realistic opportunity to focus on the root issues that
hold them back from reaching their God-given potential. This residential
program is offered at no cost to women who are pregnant, experiencing a
situation that puts them at risk for an unplanned pregnancy and those who
have had an abortion and desire supportive services. The 9 month program
is intensive requiring women to follow a full daily schedule, actively
participate in group and individual activities, and comply with procedures
for outside visits. Women will take part in life-skill classes in nutrition,
parenting, money management and entrepreneurship, healthy relationships
and spiritual growth
209 E. Wilber Avenue, Champaign, IL 61822
Contact: (217) 378-4045
Hours: Residential – 24 hours – 9 month program
Email: mercisrefuge@hopeforafuture.com
Website: mercisrefuge.org

Hope Meadows
Hope Meadows is a unique program that changes the lives of foster
children, retirees and families. Hope Meadows provides safe and loving
homes to biologic, adopted, children in foster care or the process of
adoption, and some young adults living on their own or with roommates in
a neighborhood, community setting. Supportive seniors who are entering
their retirement years remain active in the program by providing support to
the adoptive families in the Hope Meadows community. (contact info next
page)
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1530 Fairway Drive, Rantoul, IL 61866
Contact: (217)893-4673
Hours: Residential program
Website: hopemeadows.org

Regional Planning Commission


Their centralized intake works with all agencies providing shelter.
1776 E. Washington, Urbana
Contact: 217-819-4117

3. Employment
Illinois Department of Employment Security
The Re-entry Employment Service Program (RESP) serves Illinoisans who
are currently, or have in the past been, subject to any stage of the criminal
justice process and who require assistance in overcoming barriers to
employment resulting from a record of arrest or conviction.
1307 North Mattis Avenue, Champaign, Illinois, 61821
Contact: (800) 244-5631

4. Child Care and Family Services


Crisis Nursery
Crisis Nursery is the only emergency-based childcare facility
open 24 hours, 365 days a year for the entire community to access
with no fees or income eligibility. Besides safe shelter for children,
ages birth through six, they also provide family support and
parenting education to strengthen parent
skills and confidence.
1309 West Hill Street, Urbana IL 61801
Contact: (217) 337-2730
Service Hours: Open 24 hours
Child Care Resource Service (University of Illinois campus)
The Child Care Resource Service works to support the well-being of children
and families by promoting the availability of quality child care services
in the area. They work with parents, child care providers, businesses, and
community organizations to provide education and training and act as
a bridge to other important resources at the local, University, state, and
national levels.
Room 314, 905 South Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 333-3252 or (800) 325-5516
Service Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and
Friday 8:30am-4:30pm, Tuesday 11:00am-3:00pm
Website: http://ccrs.illinois.edu/
Champaign Child Support and Social Service Office
Child Support offices provide information on child support and custody
laws, attorneys and lawyers, child support payments, collections, filings, and
applications.
313 North Mattis Avenue, Champaign, IL 61821
Contact: (800) 447-4278

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Service Hours: Monday through Friday 8:00am-4:30pm
Website: http://www.countyoffice.org/il-champaign-county-
child-support-offices/

Illinois Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS)


DCFS’s stated aims are to help protect children who are reported to be
abused or neglected and to increase their family’s capacity to safely care for
them; provide for the well-being of children in its care; provide appropriate,
permanent families as quickly as possible for children who cannot safely
return home; support early intervention and child abuse prevention activities.
508 South Race Street, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 278-5400 or (800) 524-2029
Service Hours: Monday through Friday 8:30am~5:30pm
Website: https://www.illinois.gov/dcfs/Pages/default.aspx

The Center for Youth and Family Solutions


The Center for Youth and Family Solutions offers counseling, casework
and support services to assist those whose lives have been touched by
trauma, grief and loss, abuse and neglect, and other significant family life
challenges. Their services include foster care for abused and neglected
children, pregnancy support, adoption services, crisis response for runaways
and their families, delinquency prevention services for at risk youth, mental
health crisis responses for youth, intact family support and community
advocacy programs. Counseling for children, individuals, couples and
families is available on a sliding scale with graduate student interns.
1315 A Curt Drive, Champaign 61821
Contact: Clinical Supervisor (217) 352-5179
Service Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
Website: cyfsolutions.org

Family Advocacy in Champaign County


Family Advocacy in Champaign County’s mission is to protect children
by strengthening and supporting families. Services include advocacy,
mentoring, mediation, counseling, workshops, outreach, 3rd party/
supervised visits, family table group sessions to address parenting skills,
domestic violence, relationships, life skills, budgeting, short and long term
goals, anger management group, financial literacy training for youth aging
out of the child welfare system, couples counseling, life skills for adults and
teens to establish self-sufficiency and parenting classes.
310 W. Church Street, Suite 103, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217)607-0546
Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:30am-4:30 pm (closed from noon-1pm)
Web: family-advocacy.org

Safe Families
Safe families is a nonprofit, volunteer movement that creates extended
family-like support and safety for children during a family crisis such as
homelessness, hospitalization or domestic violence in an effort to prevent
child abuse and/or neglect.
Volunteer host families are motivated by faith to keep children safe and
families intact. Host families screened and approved by Safe Families take
in children for short periods of time. Family Friends provide mentoring and
transportation to families in crisis and babysitting and meals to support the

F I N D I N G Y O U R W AY : A G U I D E T O R E - E N T R Y 7
host families. Safe Families PLUS Mentors mentor young adults aging out of
foster care.
#3 Henson Place Suite 1, Champaign
Contact: (217)355-4446
Hours:
Email: champaign@safefamilies.net
Website: safe-famililes.org

Living Alternatives Pregnancy Resource Center


Living Alternatives Pregnancy Resource Center provides free services in
a caring and confidential setting by staff who specialize in pregnancy
and sexual health issues. Services include pregnancy testing/ultrasound
scanning, options counseling, parenting support, adoption support,
post-abortion healing, STI/STD information, abstinence education and
a residential program, Merci’s Refuge, (see Housing page 5 for more
information. Living alternatives neither performs abortions nor provides
referrals.
205 Wilbur Avenue, Champaign, IL 61824
Contact: (217) 398-6511
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
Website: hopeforafuture.com

Champaign County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates)


CASA provides a trained, committed, court-appointed advocate who speaks
up for, stands by and argues for the best interest of children ranging from
newborn to 18 years of age until the case is closed. Volunteer advocates
make sure a child does not get lost in the overburdened legal and social
service system or languish in an inappropriate group or foster home. It
means the difference between homelessness and a safe home, between
dropping out and completing school, between unemployment and success,
between jail and becoming a productive member of society.
154C Lincoln Square, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 384-9065
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm
Email: casa@casa4kids.org
Website: casa4kids.org

Family Service of Champaign County – Children First


The Children First program is for parents with children 18 or younger who
are divorcing or resolving custody and visitation disputes. This class helps
one learn about and discuss how the family will change upon separation or
divorce and its impact on the child(ren).
With the assistance of DVD’s and moderated group discussions, one learns
ways to minimize the negative effects on children. Particular focus is given
to making one aware of the ways children may express their reactions to the
changing family structure.
Evening or Saturday classes are available.
405 S. State St. Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 352-0099
Hours: Monday-Friday noon-5pm to register
Email: info@familyservicecc.org
Website: familiyservcc.org/children-first

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Family Service of Champaign County – Counseling
Family Service of Champaign County Counseling service provides
counseling with professional therapists for individuals, couples, or a family
with children to resolve conflicts arising from personal and relationship
issues such as marital and parent-child relationships, divorce, childhood
trauma, depression, abuse, and adjustment to life changes. Sliding scale
fee based on income and family size for Champaign County residents; most
health insurance plans are accepted.
405 S. State St., Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 352-0099
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
Email: info@familyservicecc.org
Website: famservcc.org/counseling/

Family Service of Champaign County –


Family Caregiver Support
The Family Service Caregiver Support program is for anyone caring for a
family member or friend who is age 60 or older or caring for an adult child
with disabilities. The Caregiver Advisor assists family caregivers by providing
information, assistance to access services or benefits, advocates to get
services in place, offers education and training and provides support for this
time in one’s life. There is no fee to the caregiver or the older adult or adult
child with disabilities. The Caregiver Advisor will meet with you in the office
or at your home.
405 S. State Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217)-352-5100 Senior Resource Center
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
Website: famservcc.org/family-caregiver-support/

Family Service of Champaign County –


Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Grandparents raising grandchildren is a program for an aunt, uncle, or other
adult raising the children of a relative in Champaign and Piatt Counties. The
Caregiver Advisor provides information, assistance accessing services or
benefits, advocacy to get services properly in place, education or training on
issues important to you or your grandchildren and support during this time
of life. Services are free to the grandparent or relative.
405 S. State Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 352-5100 Senior Resource Center
Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
Website: famservcc.org/grandparents-raising-grandchildren/

Division of Specialized Services for Children in Illinois


The Division of Specialized Services for Children helps families with children
and youth with special health care needs connect to services and resources
to access diagnostic tests, find specialized medical care, access insurance
and All Kids/Medicaid, develop a care coordination plan, communicate with
doctors, specialists and schools, prepare for transitions and payment for
certain medical expenses.
510 Devonshire Dr. #A, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 333-6528
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm
Website: dscc.uic.edu
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The Autism Program University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
The Autism Program (TAP) is a community-focused program of the
Department of Human Development and Family Studies and the
Department of Special Eduacation at the University of Illinois. The services
include resource and referral center for professionals and parents,
development and evaluation of model programs in training, treatment, and
family support and facilitation of collaborations between agencies, schools
and individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and their families.
The TAP resource room materials are free and can be customized to meet
individualized needs. Staff and student interns are available to meet in
person, by phone or email to collectively brainstorm creative solutions. Most
materials can be translated to Spanish.
904 W. Nevada Street, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 621-8429
Email: info@cuautismnetwork.org
Website: cuautismnetwork.org
Larkin’s Place
Larkin’s Place at the Stephen’s Family YMCA has created programs designed
to support children at all developmental levels and their families. Larkin’s
Place programming is for all who wish to achieve therapeutic goals,
developmental goals, improve skills and create social networks. The
programs seek to bring together developing children and those with
disabilities to play and learn, create memories, skills and bonds of friendship
that will cross all barriers and last a lifetime.
2501 Fields South Drive, Champaign, IL 61822
Contact: (217) 359-9622
Hours: Monday-Friday 5am-10 pm, Saturday 6am-6pm and
Sunday noon-6pm
Website: sf-ymca.net/programs/
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Champaign County
The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Champaign County matches children
dealing with all types of adversity with strong and enduring, professionally
supported one-to-one mentor relationships to change their lives to the
better.
404 W. Church Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 355-2227
Hours:
Website: bbscil.org/Champaign-County/
Champaign Unit 4 Schools
Contact this office for enrollment information if you live in Champaign,
Savoy, or Bondville.
703 South New Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 351-3800
Service Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm
Website: https://www.champaignschools.org/
Urbana School District #116
Contact this office for enrollment information if you live in Urbana.
205 N Race Street, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 384-3600
Service Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-4:40pm
Website: http://www.usd116.org/

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5. Food Services and Pantries
Area Food Pantry Locations and Hours
Champaign Church of the Brethren
1210 N. Neil St., Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217)356-3852
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-12pm
Wesley Food Pantry
Their mission is to alleviate food insecurity in our community one family at a
time by providing them with one week’s worth of nutritious groceries. They
offer evening pantry hours for clients to visit after regular hours of work. The
service also promotes childhood literacy by giving each child two books to
take home; it also provides the children with crafts and activities.
1203 W. Green St. Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: 217-344-1120
Service Hours: Every Thursday, 5:30 pm to 7:30pm, doors open at 5 pm
Website: http://wesleypantry.org/about.html
Wesley Food Pantry at Parkland
2400 W Bradley Avenue, Champaign IL 61826
Service Hours: Every Wednesday, 11:00am-12:30pm and 1st & 3rd Saturday
of the month, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Daily Bread Soup Kitchen
Provides a safe, respectful, and inviting environment in an atmosphere
of hope and dignity. Daily Bread Soup Kitchen serves a hot meal of soup,
salad, entree, dessert and beverage to over 200 guests per day. The service
is entirely volunteer run and dependent on donations from individuals,
businesses and local grants.
Daily Bread also provides sack lunches to go, a Christmas backpack program
(gloves, hats, blankets, etc.) and assistance with State ID’s, in and out of state
birth certificates and annual bus passes for those who can demonstrate a
need to move guests toward employment and independence.
Hours: 10:30-noon, second Wed. of the month
116 N. First Street Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 356-7687
Service Hours: Lunch Daily 11:00am~12:30pm
Website: https://dailybreadsoupkitchen.com/
Salt & Light Food Pantry
Salt & Light’s food co-op is a membership–based food cooperative providing
individuals the opportunity to use their skills, talents, gifts, and abilities to
provide food for themselves and their families. The co-op serves families and
individuals struggling with chronic food insecurity. With their co-op model,
participants choose the foods they want to eat, much like shopping in a
grocery store. The co-op is open to the public, and anyone is welcome to
shop. For those who are unable to use financial resources, co-op credit can be
earned by working at any local non-profit in the community. Each participant
can earn up to $165 each month to spend in the co-op and/or thrift store.
1512 W. Anthony Drive Champaign, Illinois 61821
Contact: (217) 355-5654
Service Hours: Monday through Saturday 9am~8pm
Website: http://www.saltandlightministry.org/food-co-op

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Stone Creek Church Food Pantry
This food pantry collaborates with Grace United Church to provide food for
those in need.
2004 South Philo Road, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 344-5455
Service Hours: Mondays, 10:30am-1:00pm

Vineyard Food Pantry


Serves the public weekly on Wednesdays with a bag of food, choice of bread
and produce & 2 choice items. No ID required. Just sign in on the forms.

Hope Center
1802 N Lincoln, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 384-3706
Service Hours: Wednesdays, 9:00am-6:00pm

St. Patrick Church – St. Vincent de Paul Society Food Pantry


The St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. Patrick’s supports a food pantry with
volunteer members who give out food to our friends in the community at
the parish center. In the Fall, Thanksgiving baskets are delivered to local
residents. In collaboration with other parish ministries, SVDP also hosts a
dinner in unity with the Friends of the food pantry.
708 W. Main Street, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: Ellen Abell (217) 367-5648
Hours: Monday-Thursday 4:30-5:00 pm
Email: ellen.abell@comcast.net
Website: stpaturbana.weebly.com/saint-vincent-depaul-society.html

Community Service Center of Northern Champaign County


(CSCNCC)
520 E. Wabash Suite 1, Rantoul, IL 61866
Contact: (217) 893-1530
Hours: Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm

Emmanuel Memorial Church Food Pantry


208 W. University Ave., Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 352-9827
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-10am (or until all sacks have been distributed)

Right Hand Food Pantry


1281 Eater Drive, Rantoul, IL 61866
Contact: (217) 892-5110
Hours: 2nd and 4t Sat. 10am-12pm

Empty Tomb
Provides groceries to individuals or families in need through a network of
volunteers who make free deliveries to the residence.
301 N. Fourth Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 356-2262
Hours:
Website: emptytomb.org

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Partnering Against Homelessness – Canteen Run
The Canteen Run is a program that provides food and drinks, shirts and
underwear, and blankets at designated locations and times throughout the
week to persons who are homeless or near homeless.
Contact: (217) 369-9344
Hours: Schedule varies for canteen runs and locations; refer to website
schedule for details
Email: cucanteenrun.org
Website: cucanteenrun.org

Food is Medicine
The Food is Medicine program is a partnership between the Eastern IL
Foodbank and the Public Health Department and Promise Healthcare at
Frances Nelson Health Center. It serves patients and individuals who are
struggling to afford an adequate diet for healthy living. A bag of groceries
(both locations) and fresh produce (Health Department only) are available
on site for people who qualify for this service.
Frances Nelson Health Center
819 Bloomington Road, Champaign, IL 61820
Public Health Department – 201 W. Kenyon Rd., Champaign, IL 61820
See Health Care (pages 16-18) for contact information, hours and websites

Food for Seniors


Provides home delivery of supplemental groceries to low income seniors
on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month, from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
15 E. Main St, Champaign
217 359-6500
Contact: (217) 352-5100
Hours: Monday-Friday 8-4

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Farmers’ Market


Nutrition Program
WIC provides nutritious foods to supplement diets, information on healthy
eating (including breastfeeding support), and referrals to health care.
Foods such as dairy products, fruits and vegetables, and infant formula are
provided through grocery store vouchers.
201 W. Kenyon Rd., Champaign
Contact: (217) 531-4319 or (217) 531-4305
Service Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30~11:00am
and 1:00~3:30 pm
Website: http://www.c-uphd.org/wic.html

6. Clothing
Public Health District
Free kids clothes, age 0-18 on Tuesday 9-4 p.m.
201 W. Kenyon Rd., Champaign
217 352-7961
M-F 8-4:30

F I N D I N G Y O U R W AY : A G U I D E T O R E - E N T R Y 13
Goodwill
This long-standing nonprofit chain has a range of pre-owned clothing,
furniture, housewares and more. Revenues from auction sales fund
Goodwill’s education, training and job placement programs for people with
disabilities and other barriers.
912 W Anthony Dr, Champaign, IL 61821
Savoy Plaza, 1201 Savoy Plaza Ln, Savoy, IL 61874
Contact: Champaign (217) 280-1870; Savoy Plaza (217) 503-6076
Service Hours: Sunday 12:00-6:00pm; rest of the week 9am-7pm

The Salvation Army Family Store & Donation Center


Salvation Army Family Stores sell pre-owned clothing that has been
donated. The proceeds are used to fund Salvation Army re-entry programs.
2212 N Market St, Champaign, IL 61822
Contact: (217) 373-7825
Service Hours: Monday to Saturday 9am-6pm
Website: https://satruck.org/

Restoration Urban Ministries


The Clothing and Food Pantry services are open to all Champaign County
residents that meet income and residential requirements. Adult, children,
and infant clothing is available in the clothing pantry, as are casual, sports,
and professional wear.
1213 Parkland Ct, Champaign, IL 61821
Contact: (217) 355-2662
Clothing Pantry Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday,
and Friday from 10am-3pm
Website: http://restorationurbanministries.net/

Salt and Light


1819 Philo Road, Urbana 61801
Hours/Food Program are the same as Champaign Location (find details on
page 11)

7. Counseling & Substance Abuse Treatment


Prairie Center
The Prairie Center is a nonprofit substance abuse treatment center with a
mission to provide the highest quality prevention, intervention, education,
and treatment services for alcoholism and chemical dependency, other
addictions, and associated conditions to individuals, families, and
communities.
122 West Hill, Champaign, IL 61820
Champaign Contact: (217) 356-7576; FAX: 217-356-6571
718 Killarney, Urbana, IL 61801
Urbana Contact: 217-328-4500; Fax: 217-328-4535
24-Hour Help Hotline: 217-356-7576
Service Hours: Call for 24H service or walk-in at the Urbana office Monday to
Friday 9am-5pm
Website: http://www.prairie-center.org/

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Rosecrance
Rosecrance offers comprehensive addiction services for adolescents and
adults, including prevention, intervention, detoxification, inpatient and
outpatient treatment, experiential therapies, and dual-diagnosis care and
family education. Rosecrance also offers outpatient mental health services
for children, adults and families through a variety of programs.
801 N. Walnut Street Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 373-2430
Service Hours: Monday to Friday 8am-3:30pm
Website: http://www.rosecrance.org/facilities/champaign/

Narcotics Anonymous
Narcotics Anonymous is a global, community-based organization with a
multilingual and multicultural membership. They offer recovery from the
effects of addiction through working a twelve-step program, including
regular attendance at group meetings. The group atmosphere provides help
from peers and offers an ongoing support network for addicts who wish to
pursue and maintain a drug-free lifestyle.
Find a meeting - http://www.naws.org/meetingsearch/
Helpline: (800) 539-0475

Alcoholics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous is an international fellowship of men and women
who have had a drinking problem. It is nonprofessional, self-supporting,
multiracial, apolitical, and available almost everywhere. There are no age or
education requirements. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do
something about his or her drinking problem. Check website for full list of
meetings and locations county-wide.
8 Henson Place, Champaign: Monday-Friday meetings 6am, noon, 5:15pm;
also noon on Saturday and Sunday. Many other locations and times.
Find a mtg - www.aa-eci.org; 24-hour Answering Service: (217) 373-4200

Crisis Line
A non-profit organization that provides free and confidential emotional
support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
1801 Fox Dr, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 359-4141

The Pavilion
The Pavilion’s addiction treatment spans the continuum of care and includes
Inpatient Medical Detoxification, Dual Diagnosis Treatment, and Residential/
Partial Hospital Treatment. Based on the 12-step model, its treatment assists
patients in building the skills and resources necessary for sustained recovery
809 W Church Street, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 373-1700, (800) 373-1700, 24 hours

F I N D I N G Y O U R W AY : A G U I D E T O R E - E N T R Y 15
8. Health Care
Frances Nelson Health Center
Frances Nelson is a primary care medical and mental health clinic dedicated
to providing affordable and accessible high quality health care services to
the medically underserved population of Champaign County, now with a
walk-in clinic and convenient care access.
819 Bloomington Road Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 356-1558
Service Hours: Monday 7:30am-7:30pm;
Tuesday to Friday 7:30-5:30
Website: http://www.promisehealth.org/health-center

Carle Hospital
Carle Hospital is a large hospital with regular care providers and an ER for
emergencies. You may also take classes at Carle entitled “All about baby”
and “First Aid and CPR”. You can also attend different seminars and support
groups. Ask to apply for the Carle Assistance Program if you need help to
pay your bills.
611 W Park St, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 383-3311; appointment and consultant for drug addiction
(217) 383-6039. Service Hours: 24 Hours
Website: https://carle.org/services/addiction

Presence Medical Center


Hospital located in Urbana. Offering programs that help people who are
struggling with depression, anxiety, and alcoholism or drug abuse.
1400 W Park St, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 337-2000
Service Hours: 24 Hours
Website: www.presencehealth.org

Parkland Dental
Dental hygiene office for check-ups and other dental procedures, including
oral cancer screenings and oral x-rays. You may also find nutritional
counseling and dental care education.
Parkland College Main Campus: 2400 W Bradley Ave, Champaign, IL 61821,
Room L148
Contact: (217) 351-2221 Fax: (217) 373-3830
Clinic Hours: Call for an appointment Monday through Friday.
During the summer session please call Monday through Thursday.

Champaign County Health Care Consumers


This is an organization dedicated to getting patients affordable healthcare.
CCHCC carries out its mission through consumer education, advocacy,
and community organizing. If you have questions about Medicaid or other
health services, visit them. Hotline available to assist with specific medical
and dental needs.
44 E. Main Street, Suite 208, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact and hotline: (217) 352-6533
Service Hours: Monday through Friday 9am-5pm
Website: http://www.healthcareconsumers.org/

16 F I N D I N G Y O U R W AY : A G U I D E T O R E - E N T R Y
Hermes Clinic
Health services for adults and children organized by Medical school
students. Appointments for school physicals, health maintenance visits, and
medical lab tests.
Multicultural Health Center
2040 S Orchard Dr, Urbana IL 61801
Thursdays 6-8
www.hermesclinic.org

The Love Clinic


Health services for adults (18 and over), including medical assessments,
health education, medication management and refill assistance, cholesterol
and blood screenings.
The Church of the Living God
310 E Bradley Avenue, Champaign, IL 61820
217-359-6920
Last Saturday of every month 9am - noon

Avicenna Community Health Center


Health services for Adults (18 and over) including services for high blood
pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, routine physical exam. Social work
services and diet and exercise counselling are also available.
819 Bloomington Road, Champiagn, IL 61820
Sundays 1-4pm
Call for appointment 217-418-5888

Champaign County Christian Health Center


Services include primary care for acute or chronic illness, job and general
physical exams, and tooth extractions.
Presence Community Center
1400 W Park, Urbana IL 61801
Every Tuesday 5:30-8, and the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 5:30-7:30
Call for appointment 217-402-5683

Public Health Department


Here you can find maternal and child services, dental health, environmental
health, infectious disease prevention and management, and wellness and
health promotion services. On their website, you can also find medical
updates and events around town. They offer free tests and free vaccinations.
Also people who apply for WIC can get food supplements here for children
in the forms of fresh food which is given out on Wednesday and Thursday,
1-3 p.m.
201 W. Kenyon Rd. Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 352-7961 – 24 Hours
Service Hours: Monday through Friday 7:30am-4:30pm
Website: http://www.c-uphd.org/

Illinois Department of Human Services - Medicaid


DHS can help families meet their basic needs. They offer a range of services
to help you become healthy and self-sufficient. Some of those services
include child-care, cash, food, early-intervention, and housing. (contact info
on next page)

F I N D I N G Y O U R W AY : A G U I D E T O R E - E N T R Y 17
705 N Country Fair Dr, Champaign, IL 61821
Contact: (217) 278-5605 or Help line 1-800-843-6154
Service Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30~5:00pm
Website: http://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx

9. Transportation
Champaign Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD)
MTD has a range of buses with many different routes that take you all over
the Champaign-Urbana area. Bus fare is $1 per ride; you can also purchase
daily, monthly, or annual passes. On their website, you may type in a
location and destination and the website will tell you what bus to take and
the times that that bus will be arriving. Those over 65 can get a pass to ride
for free.
1101 East University Avenue Urbana, IL 61802-2009
Contact: (217) 384-8188
Website for schedule information: https://www.cumtd.com

10. Places of Worship


Bethel AME Church
Founded in 1863, Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church has been
operating in Champaign for over 150 years. Bethel AME has a long history of
involvement in social justice issues. During the years of segregation, Bethel
maintained a reading center, established a library and served as a meeting
place for Black students attending the University of Illinois. Today the church
has numerous active groups including the Willing Workers’ Club, the Luana
Riley Women’s Missionary Society, a Fitness Club and a Step Team. In 2015,
Bethel AME opened its doors to FirstFollowers reentry program which
has used the church as its center of operations since that time. Affiliation:
African Methodist Episcopal
401 E. Park St., Champaign 61820
Contact: (217) 356 0323
Service Times: 10:45 a.m. Sunday
Bible Study: Tuesday noon and 6 p.m.
http://www.bethelamechampaign.org/

Central Illinois Mosque and Islamic Center


The Central Illinois Mosque (CIMIC) is the main Muslim site of worship in
Champaign County. The Mosque is also involved in a number of community
activities and runs a weekend Islamic School that has been operating for
nearly five decades. CIMIC aims to provide coordination of local Muslim
affairs, foster a positive understanding of Islam in American society, and
promote a spirit of brotherhood, equality and commitment to justice.
Affiliation: Islamic Society of North America
106 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana 61801
Contact: (217) 344 1555
Prayer Times: Friday 1:05 p.m.; Friday 12:05 p.m. (winter months); 2:05 p.m.
(summer months)
http://www.cimic.org/about-us/who-we-are/

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Church of the Brethren (Neil St)
An array of services provided in addition to worship service including:
Sunday school, bible study, bible study supper, book exchange, food pantry,
computer lab, community gardening, game night and more.
Religious Affiliation: Anabaptist in the Mainline Tradition
1210 N Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 356-3852
Service Times: Sunday School 9:30 am (Every Sunday);
Worship Service 10:30 am (Every Sunday);
Bible Study 6:15 pm (Each Wednesday)
Website: http://www.cubrethren.org/

Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church


Founded in 1925, Pilgrim offers a variety of ministries including the Girl
Scouts Troop, Getting Fit for Christ, “Close the Back Door”, Kingdom Builders,
Children’s Church and Married Couples Ministry. On October 12, 2012, a
ground-breaking ceremony was held for their new church. In February
2014, the new edifice was completed. It includes a 365 – seat sanctuary
along with eight classrooms. On February 15, 2014, was the ribbon cutting
ceremony and they held their first service.
1310 N. Sixth St., Champaign 61820
Contact: 217 356 9633
Service Times: Sunday 11 a.m.; Bible study: Wednesday 7 p.m.
http://www.pilgrimmb.org/

Stone Creek Church


Stone Creek Church is one church with multiple locations. They have
campuses in Urbana, at the University of Illinois, and in Rantoul. According
to their website, worshippers at Stone Creek can expect “a casual
atmosphere, a Sunday service lasting one hour, thought-provoking teaching
from our teaching team, live, contemporary worship music and fun teaching
for your kids.” After attending a weekend service, Stone Creek encourages
people to connect throughout the week in a Growth Group.
912 W. Springfield Ave, Urbana 61801
2502 Race St., Urbana 61801; 3105 N. Maplewood Dr., Rantoul 61866
Contact: (217) 344 5455
Service Times: Sunday 9:30 and 11 a.m.
http://www.sccwired.com/

Vineyard Church
Their Mission is to “Continue the ministry of Jesus” by the power of the Holy
Spirit. The church places a heavy emphasis on building connections through
small groups, in which attendees meet in homes throughout the week for
bible study and other thematic interests. Worship is also a significant focus.
Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational, Christianity who believes in Jesus
Christ
1500 N Lincoln Ave, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 384-3070
Service Hours: Saturday 6pm, Sunday 9:15am,
Sunday 11am
Website: http://www.thevineyardchurch.us/

F I N D I N G Y O U R W AY : A G U I D E T O R E - E N T R Y 19
Other places of worship:
Catholic: Church of St. Mary, 612 E. Park St. Champaign 61820;
Contact: (217) 352-8364 (they offer Spanish language mass Sundays at 1
p.m.)
Mennonite: 902 W. Springfield, Urbana IL 61801 Contact: 217 367-5353
Non-denominational: Church of the Living God (The Love Corner)
310 E. Bradley, Ave., Champaign IL 61820 Contact: (217) 359-4884

11. Libraries
Libraries can provide many services which might prove valuable. All the
libraries listed below have free wireless internet, as well as computer
stations where you can explore employment opportunities.

Champaign Public Library


200 W Green St, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 403-2000
Service Hours: Saturday 10am–6pm; Sunday 1–6pm;
Monday to Wednesday 9am–9pm;
Thursday to Friday 9am–6pm

Champaign Public Library


Douglass Branch 504 E Grove St, Champaign, IL 61820
Contact: (217) 403-2090
Service Hours: Saturday 10am–4pm;
Monday and Tuesday 10am–8pm;
Wednesday to Friday 10am–6pm; Closed on Sunday

Urbana Free Library


210 W Green St, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 367-4057
Service Hours: Saturday 9am–6pm;
Sunday 1–5pm; Monday to Thursday 9am–9pm; Friday 9am–6pm

Rantoul Public Library


106 W Flessner Ave, Rantoul, IL 61866
Contact: (217) 893-3955
Service Hours: Saturday 9am–5pm;
Sunday 1–5pm; Monday to Thursday 9am–9pm;
Friday 9am–5pm

12. Adult Education


Urbana Adult Education Center
The Urbana Adult Education Center provides educational and career
services to residents of Champaign County and surrounding communities
in East Central Illinois. Service includes lifelong learning opportunities for
persons 16 years of age and over, serving approximately 1,000 students
each year.
Their programs consist of the following: GED, High School Diploma,

20 F I N D I N G Y O U R W AY : A G U I D E T O R E - E N T R Y
English Language Acquisition, Certified Nursing Assistant, Continuing
Education and Career Development. They help their students to become
more competitive in the workforce, which allows them to transition into
meaningful employment with a living wage.
211 North Race Street, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 384-3530
Service Hours: Monday to Thursday 8am-8pm ;
Friday 8am-5pm
Website: http://urbanaadulteducation.org/

Parkland Adult Reentry Center


Parkland Adult Education offers free services and instruction to adults who
need to improve their basic literacy skills, do not have their high school
diploma, do not speak English as their first language, or need assistance
with career preparation.
Parkland’s Adult Reentry Center is perfect for busy adults who need a
convenient way to finish their college degrees. The Adult Reentry Center
offers basic academic advising, transcript evaluation, information regarding
flexible scheduling and alternative class formats, and access to convenient
associates, bachelors, and masters degree completion opportunities.
2400 West Bradley Ave, Champaign, IL 61821
Contact: (217) 351-2200 or (888) 467-6065
Website: http://www.parkland.edu/arc

Odyssey Project
The Odyssey Project is a free, 32-week, college-credit-granting humanities
program for income-eligible adults, 18 years and older, with limited-to-no
access to higher education. Courses are free and offered at Urbana Adult
Education Center. For more information call Urbana Adult Education,
(217) 384-3530
or visit the Odyssey website at: https://engage.illinois.edu/entry/2419

13. Legal Services


Land of Lincoln
Provides free legal help and advice about housing, family, consumer,
public benefits, health, senior citizen, and education legal issues. Example
cases: evictions, foreclosures, lock-outs, utility shut-offs, contract for deed
problems, domestic violence, protection orders, custody cases, divorce,
debt collection, repossession, garnishments, home improvement problems,
consumer fraud, food stamps, and Medicaid.
The individual who needs legal help should first contact the Legal Advice
and Referral Center (LARC) at (877) 342-7891 between 9:00 a.m. and 1:30
p.m.
302 North First Street Champaign, Illinois 61820
Service Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
Contact: Office (217) 356-1351; Toll Free (800) 747-5523;
Fax (217) 356-76210; New Applicants (877) 342-7891;
Legal Advice and Referral Center (877) 342-7891
Email: champaign@lollaf.org
Website: https://localwiki.org/cu/Land_of_Lincoln_Legal_Assistance

F I N D I N G Y O U R W AY : A G U I D E T O R E - E N T R Y 21
Champaign County Courthouse
Having a lawyer in court can make a real difference. If you are in need of
a lawyer and cannot afford one, if you are a victim of sexual assault, or if
you have the money but cannot find a lawyer contact Champaign County
Courthouse.
101 E Main St #215, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 384-3725
Service Hours: Monday to Friday 8am-4:30pm
Website: http://www.cccircuitclerk.com/SelfHelpHandout.pdf;
http://www.cccircuitclerk.com

Illinois Department of Corrections Parole


The Parole Division monitors the reentry and compliance of individuals
on parole. They also run Day Reporting Centers and community housing
programs across the state.1301 Concordia Court P.O. Box 19277 Springfield,
IL 62794-9277
Service Hours: Call for more information
Contact: (217) 558-2200 x 2008; 1-800-666-6744 24 hours
Website: https://www.illinois.gov/idoc/parole/Pages/default.aspx

Drug Court
In order to break the cycle of criminal recidivism, drug court’s goal is to
assess and direct individuals with substance abuse addictions into judicially
supervised treatment, rather than jail. A defendant’s success requires
tremendous dedication from the professional staff, the clients, and their
families to make the transition from addiction to sobriety.
101 E Main St, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 384-3753
Service Hours: Call for more information
Website: http://www.co.champaign.il.us/drugcourt

14. General Resource Assistance


Illinois Department of Human Services
Provides a wide arrange of food programs for low-income households and
individuals, women, infants, and youths in need. Look at website to find out
more. The Illinois Department of Human Services supports and partners
with many programs throughout the State of Illinois. They are aimed at
increasing the availability, accessibility and/or quality of life and public
services for thousands of Illinois families. This agency oversees welfare,
substance abuse, domestic violence prevention, after-school programs for
youth, and other programs.
705 N Country Fair Dr, Champaign, IL 61821
Contact: (217) 278-5605 or Help line 1-800-843-6154
Service Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30~5:00pm
Website: http://www.dhs.state.il.us/

Champaign County Regional Planning Commission (CCRPC)


Champaign County Regional Planning Commission provides assistance
to seniors, low-income clients and the disabled who are struggling to pay
off their energy bills. Grants are offered from CCRPC through the federal

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Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This is a one-time
benefit, which depends on the household’s total income, household size,
type of fuel used and geographic location.
http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/champaign_county_regional_
plan.html

Ripple Effect
(through the Education Justice Project - University of Illinois)
We invite individuals with loved ones in prison to join us on the third
Monday of each month. We organize these gatherings for mutual support
and to provide an opportunity for people with loved ones inside to learn
from those who have been in prison themselves. Come with your questions,
and also with the addresses of your incarcerated loved ones. Ripple Effect
provides stationery and postage. Children’s activities and light supper
provided. All are welcome. No need to RSVP.
http://www.educationjustice.net/home/
Contact: (217) 300.5150
info@educationjustice.net

Cunningham Township Supervisor’s Office


This office supports low income households within the Urbana city limits
through monthly cash assistance, job readiness, referrals to other agencies,
and advocacy to help meet their needs. The township also distributes grants
to local non-profit agencies that serve low-income persons.
205 W. Green St, Urbana, IL 61801
Contact: (217) 384-4144
Hours: M-F 8:30-noon and 1 to 4:30

Champaign City of Champaign Township


The township provides monthly cash assistance and helps meet the most
basic maintenance needs for disabled residents of Champaign who are
currently applying for disability (SSI/SSDI). The township also will pay a
housing deposit for anyone leaving a homeless shelter and moving to a
Champaign residence.
53 E. Logan St. Champaign 61820
Contact: (217)-403-6120
https://cctownship.com/

Muslim American Society Community Center (MASUC)


MAS Urbana-Champaign is a grassroots, community organization and
a local chapter of MAS National that works to educate, organize, and
empower the Muslim community to be active, contributing citizens who
play a significant role towards positive social and spiritual change. MAS runs
a community center which offers social services, religious activities, youth
projects, recreational opportunities and conducts outreach programs for
the community at large.
2011 Brownfield Rd. Urbana Il 61802
Contact: (217) 298-2155
http://masuc.org/

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Know Your Rights:
Urbana:
In Urbana it is illegal to discriminate against people based on criminal
conviction or arrest record. A landlord or employer cannot deny you
solely based on your record. If you feel you have been discriminated
against you can file a complaint with the Human Relations Officer,
Vacellia Clark, hro@urbanaillinois.us 217 384 2466

Champaign:
If you feel you have been discriminated against due to race, gender,
sexual orientation, you can file a complaint with the Community
Relations Officer. communityrelations@champaignil.gov 217 403 8830.
Please note that Champaign does not ban discrimination in housing or
employment based on criminal background.

Ban the Box:


It is illegal for employers in Illinois, including private companies, to
ask about your criminal background on an employment application.
If you find employers who still have this on their applications, report it
to the Human Relations Officer of the city or report it to FirstFollowers
firstfollwerscu@gmail.com

24 F I N D I N G Y O U R W AY : A G U I D E T O R E - E N T R Y

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