North Cook News

The Village of Skokie has announced that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are expected to be interrupted in November due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. In response, local organizations and the Village have outlined several ways for residents to seek help or support their neighbors during this period.

A donation drive will take place at the Skokie Farmers’ Market on Sunday, November 2, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Non-perishable food items can be dropped off at the market tent. All donations will go to the Niles Township Food Pantry, which supports families in need. Clothing items will not be accepted at this event.

Additional donations for the Niles Township Food Pantry can be delivered Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 8341 Lockwood Ave., Skokie. Items most needed include cooking oil, cereal, pasta, rice, canned meats, and household essentials such as toilet paper and diapers in sizes 4-6. Financial contributions can also be made online.

Residents of Niles Township who need food assistance can register by visiting the pantry during its open hours or by calling 847-983-0073. New households are asked to bring a state ID or driver’s license; if these documents are expired or list an incorrect address, a current utility bill or other credible mail is required.

For those facing financial hardship, the Village of Skokie’s Health and Human Services Department offers an Emergency Financial Assistance Program for urgent needs like overdue rent, mortgage payments, or utility bills threatened with disconnection (ComEd and Nicor). The Niles Township Emergency Assistance program is also available for eligible residents who have received a five-day eviction notice or a utility disconnection notice.

Residents of suburban Cook County who are homeless or at risk of homelessness may call the Entry Point Call Center at 1-877-426-6515 for referrals to resources.

Utility payment assistance programs are available through LIHEAP as well as ComEd and Nicor Gas. The Village’s Health and Human Services Department assists with applications for Nicor Gas support programs such as Energy Aide and Nicor Sharing; more information is available by calling 847-933-8252.

For housing concerns, guidance on tenant rights is provided by the National Housing Law Project for those receiving HUD assistance.

Further questions can be directed to the Village of Skokie Health and Human Services Department at 847-933-8252. The Illinois Department of Human Services also provides additional resources.