Supporting Information
10 Things Every Consumer Should Know About Auto Repair
When faced with the possibility of costly auto repair work, most consumers want to get the best deal for their money. It is equally important to know that the repair service is dependable. In Chicago, consumers have certain rights when it comes to working with an auto repair shop outlined in the Chicago Municipal Code. Chapter 4-228.
Bullying Prevention
Welcome to the CDPH Bullying Prevention Working Group web page. This page is for youth, parents, adults who work with youth, stakeholders, etc. who want to find resources to prevent bullying in their schools and communities.
CDPH Immunization Clinics
Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) Fast Track immunization clinics provide vaccinations at no charge for children 0 through 18 years of age.
Caregiving Support Groups
The Chicago Department of Family & Support Services is mindful that throughout Chicago, an ever growing number of people are devoting themselves to the daily care of loved ones. Whether the role of caregiver comes gradually, or through a sudden crisis, caregivers need somewhere to turn. That is why the Chicago Department of Family & Support Services has expanded our Caregiver Support Program to meet the essential needs of family caregivers.
Chicago Cultural Center
Drawn by its beauty and the fabulous free public events, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to the Chicago Cultural Center every year, making it one of the most visited attractions in Chicago.
Chicago Farmers Markets
ChicagoFarmers Markets sell fresh seasonal produce, flowers, prepared foods, unique Chicago-made products and rare finds – at Chicago’s longest running farmers market on Daley Plaza, the historic Maxwell Street Market and a dozen more community markets in neighborhoods across Chicago.
Childhood Exposure to Violence (CEV)
This 5-module curriculum that focuses on building a community response to Childhood Exposure to Violence helps participants define Childhood Exposure to Violence, recognize the symptoms/behaviors a child may exhibit, and what can be done to respond appropriately when a child has been exposed to violence.
City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower
A resplendent venue showcasing the work of local photographers and artists, the City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower, is centrally located along the city's famed Magnificent Mile.
City of Chicago VAWA Emergency Transfer Plan for Residents of HUD-Funded Housing Programs
The City of Chicago, through the Department of Family and Support Services, the Department of Public Health and the Department of Planning and Development, is required by the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA) to develop a plan for individuals who 1) live in eligible housing that is supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) and 2) have experienced domestic violence.
Clean & Green
Check out the details on the City's Annual clean & Green Day of Service.
Community Action for Domestic Violence
Recognize that domestic violence has a serious and negative impact on the quality of life in our city. It is everybody's business.
Community Service Centers
Community Service Centers are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday thru Friday. City residents who need assistance can drop in or schedule an appointment in advance.
Cool Chi
The City of Chicago participates in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) community-led urban heat island mapping campaign, where volunteer resident scientists, working with the City and community-based organizations, will travel through predetermined routes in their neighborhoods in the morning, afternoon, and evening on one of the hottest days of the year with heat sensors mounted on their own cars.
DFSS News
Archived Coverage of DFSS Initiatives
Disability Rights Resources - Accessibility Compliance Unit
Below are links to the websites of accessible transportation providers and organizations that provide transportation-related information.
Division on Domestic Violence Delegate Agency Site Locations
Division on Domestic Violence Delegate Agency services listed with site locations and contact information.
Domestic Violence 2005 - 2013 Help Line Reports
The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services’ (DFSS) Division on Domestic Violence released the 2010 call volume data for the City’s Domestic Violence Help Line.
Domestic Violence Special Publications
ILDVDI Customized reports are typically produced once and typically reflect a “unique” exploration. Formats include, research studies, reports to community, special reports, newspaper articles, etc.
Domestic Violence and the Work Place - Employment Protections
While many victims of domestic violence fear they will be discriminated against by their employers after they disclose their situations, there are federal laws, which can provide job protection. If you believe you have been discriminated against because of domestic violence, talk with a lawyer or advocate to learn more about your legal rights and options.
Domestic Violence and the Work Place - Victim’s Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA)
The Illinois Victim’s Economic Security and Safety Act, or VESSA, provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to an employee who is a victim of or who has a family member who is a victim of domestic or sexual violence to address issues arising from domestic or sexual violence.
Emergency Preparedness for Pet Owners
Necessary precautionary steps in the case of floods, fires, blizzards, terrorism.
Facts and Figures about People with Disabilities in Chicago and the U.S.
Statistical information about people with disabilities in Chicago and the U.S.
Federal Priorities
Plan 2.0 is aligned with the direction of two key federal actions – the federal strategic plan to end homelessness and the passage of the HEARTH Act. In 2010, the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) released Opening Doors, the federal strategic plan to end homelessness.
Film Festivals/Events Calendar
Chicago is the proud home of over 40 independent film festivals providing distinctive programming throughout the year.
Food and Nutritional Information
The Chicago Department of Public Health encourages everyone to include healthy foods from all food groups to "Get Your Plate in Shape."
Free Tax Help Available to Lower Income Chicago Residents
As Tax season winds down, don’t forget to take advantage of the City's free tax assistance services.
HIV Public Awareness Campaign
To learn more about free HIV testing or to find an HIV testing location near you, call 1-800-AID-AIDS (243-2437).
Healing Arts Chicago
The Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events and the Chicago Department of Public Health announce Healing Arts Chicago, a new program offering free arts services to support mental health and wellness at the City’s Mental Health Centers year-round.
Healthy Chicago Podcast
The Healthy Chicago Podcast, a discussion between city medical professionals and weekly guests about topics affecting public health in the city of Chicago and the world.
Homeward Bound Animal Placement Program
Transferring animals to other State Licensed animal shelters or breed rescue groups often provides them a much better chance of being adopted than remaining at our shelter. Through the Homeward Bound Program, nearly 7,000 animals are transferred out to partnering shelters each year!
Human Service Delivery
Human Service Delivery is about people and partners.
In-Home Assistive Devices
MOPD provides information and referrals to Chicago residents with personal devices or equipment that will assist them to become more independent in their home.
Inclusive Terminology 101
The Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities provides information to print and broadcast reporters, students, disability organizations and the general public about terminology and portrayal issues concerning people with disabilities.
Influenza Home
Flu is a contagious respiratory disease that can lead to serious illness, hospitalization, or even death. Most people with the flu have mild illness and do not need medical care or antiviral drugs. Review these materials for recommendations on influenza treatment, testing, and vaccination.
Information for Children Exposed to Domestic Violence
Exposure to Domestic Violence, either experienced directly or witnessed between caregivers can have a detrimental effect on children.
Information for Concerned Friends & Family Members
Every year, millions of domestic violence victims suffer from the horrors of abuse alone. Having been isolated by their abusers from friends and family, many are disconnected from sources of support, strength and safety. By reaching out to your friend or family member and breaking the silence, you can make a difference.
Innovative Programs for Underserved Populations Locations
Innovative programs provide employment-related services tailored to the needs of underserved populations such as immigrants, veterans, persons with disabilities, the homeless, non-custodial parents, persons with chemical dependencies and persons with criminal backgrounds.
Job Resources for Youth
List of Job Resources for Youth
Juneteenth Events Taking Place City-Wide
A list of events celebrating Juneteenth throughout Chicago.
Low-Cost Education and Weatherization Program
The Low-Cost Weatherization and Education Program (LCWEP) aims to prepare, educate and train Chicago residents in low cost weatherization techniques. C3 volunteers are trained in low-cost home weatherization techniques. Volunteers then train their neighbors and distribute and install weatherization kits.
Medical Reserve Corps
The national Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a volunteer group of both medical and non-medical professionals, organized on a local basis to help provide needed services to their communities during emergencies and disasters.
Microchip Chicago
Chicago Animal Care and Control strongly recommends that all pet owners microchip and obtain a collar and tag for your pets. Cats that get lost are 9 times more likely to be reunited to their home if they arrive at a shelter with a collar and tag or microchip. Dogs are 5 times more likely to be returned home to their owner if they have a collar and tag or microchip. It is also the law for all dogs to have a city dog license. If your pet gets lost and is found by our shelter we will research the tag and microchip information and contact you as soon as possible to let you know your pet is with us.
Millennium Park
Discover a state-of-the-art collection of architecture, landscape design and art that provide the backdrop for hundreds of free cultural programs including concerts, exhibitions, tours, and family activities. In Millennium Park, you’ll find a new kind of town square – a lively, spectacular gathering spot located in the heart of the city and a destination for Chicagoans and visitors alike.
Mpox Home
The CDPH Mpox landing page, featuring the latest mpox data and information about mpox testing, prevention, vaccination, and treatment.
Mpox Symptoms & Treatment
CDPH Mpox testing and treatment, with information on the signs and symptoms of mpox, mpox testing availability, isolation guidance, and mpox treatment.
Mpox Vaccine
The CDPH Mpox vaccination page, featuring information about the Jynneos mpox vaccine, mpox vaccine eligibility, vaccination cost, and where to find an mpox vaccine near you.
OVP - About Us
The Office of Violence Prevention and Behavioral Health (OVPBH) works to reduce the likelihood of violence related injury and death and support trauma recovery and healing across Chicago communities.
Other Ways To Help
Want to open your home to an animal in need? Though Chicago Animal Care & Control does not have a foster program, we can put you in contact with local organizations that do.
Partnerships To Reduce Homelessness
DFSS strives to align our core funding areas and system, policy, and planning initiatives with Plan 2.0 and federal strategic priorities. As a City department, DFSS has an additional responsibility to work with advocates, elected officials and concerned residents when they concerns about homelessness or homeless residents that they encounter.
Pet Responsibility Portal
Pet ownership is a very rewarding privilege that requires a high level of responsibility and investment on the animal owner's behalf.
Porch and Deck Safety
Safety information for residential porches and decks
Produce Mobiles Site Listing and Schedules
Produce Mobiles organizations service all clients regardless of where they live. Hours of operation are from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.
Research, Reports and Data Resources
The following links represent a selection of resources that provide research and analysis as well as data that can be manipulated and is often downloadable, searchable, and/or customizable.
Safe Havens: Supervised Visits & Safe Exchange Grant Program
As part of their participation as a demonstration site for the Safe Havens Supervised Visitation and Safe Exchange Program, three Chicago visitation centers and their collaborative partner, the Mayor’s Office on Domestic Violence, explored how the current design, processes, and procedures of visitation and exchange centers account for aspects of culture.
Safety Planning
The most dangerous time for many victims of domestic violence is when they are thinking about or actively trying to end the relationship. A personal safety plan is a way for you to identify strategies to protect yourself during this dangerous time.
Summary of Youth Services
Here is some background information on the services provided by the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services Youth Services Division:
Support Groups for Older Relatives Raising Children
The Chicago Department of Family & Support Services is mindful that throughout Chicago, an ever growing number of people are devoting themselves to the daily care of loved ones. Whether the role of caregiver comes gradually, or through a sudden crisis, caregivers need somewhere to turn. That is why the Chicago Department of Family & Support Services has expanded our Caregiver Support Program to meet the essential needs of family caregivers.
Teen Dating Violence Prevention
The Chicago Department of Public Health Office of Violence Prevention is working to raise awareness about Teen Dating Violence (TDV).
Trauma-Informed Centers of Care (TICC) Network Dashboard
The Trauma-Informed Centers of Care (TICC) initiative, launched in October 2020, operates and funds services provided by 5 CDPH mental health clinics and a robust network of mental health safety net providers. The TICC initiative mobilizes diverse mental health providers to expand low-barrier, trauma-informed, and integrative outpatient mental health services to Chicagoans regardless of ability to pay, immigration status, or health insurance. Providers include Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs), Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) that receive funds to implement service delivery models that expand allowable mental health service types in community areas of focus.
Vending Machine PIN Request Form and Information
The Chicago Department of Public Health Harm Reduction vending machines offer harm reduction supplies at no cost, but you must have a PIN code to access these items. Simply follow the steps below to gain access to items in the machine.
Volunteer at CACC
Animal Care & Control welcomes volunteers to assist in the socialization and adoption of animals housed at Animal Care & Control.
WIC Clinics
A listing of WIC facilities.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence occurs when one partner uses physical, emotional, sexual and/or financial abuse to maintain power and control over the other.