North Cook News

The ongoing federal government shutdown is expected to lead to a reduction in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for November. Local organizations and agencies are providing resources for residents seeking assistance or looking to help others during this period.

The Niles Township Food Pantry, located at 8341 Lockwood Ave. in Skokie, is accepting donations from Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. 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 open hours or calling 847-983-0073. New households are required to bring a state ID or driver’s license; if these documents are expired or have an incorrect address, a current utility bill or credible mail is accepted.

For those facing financial hardship in Skokie, the Village of Skokie Health and Human Services Department offers an Emergency Financial Assistance Program that may help with overdue rent, mortgage payments, or utility bills from ComEd and Nicor that are at risk of disconnection.

Niles Township residents with a five-day eviction notice or utility disconnection notice may qualify for emergency financial assistance through the township's program.

Suburban Cook County residents who are homeless or at risk of homelessness can call the Entry Point Call Center at 1-877-426-6515 for referrals to available resources.

Other food support options include the Humans At Help Foundation (HAHF) and services provided by the Illinois Department of Human Services.

Assistance programs for utilities such as Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), ComEd payment assistance programs, and Nicor Gas bill payment programs remain available. The Village’s Health and Human Services Department assists residents applying for energy aid through Nicor Gas’ Energy Aide and Sharing programs; more information is available by calling 847-933-8252.

For housing issues related to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development assistance, guidance is offered by the National Housing Law Project (NHLP).

Residents seeking further information should contact the Village of Skokie Health and Human Services Department at 847-933-8252. Additional resources are available through the Illinois Department of Human Services.