Respond Now is a non-profit agency in Chicago Heights, IL. The agency was
established in 1969 and has been growing ever since. It started as just a food pantry
for the community, but developed into much more as the need for other services
grew. Today we still other food pantry services, as well as rental, security deposit,
mortgage, utility, and homelessness case management assistance (CE). These
specific programs are per a referral from a call center called the Suburban Cook
County Call Center 877-426-6515 M-F 8:30am-4:30pm. We also have HUD certified
Housing Counselors who are equipped to provide counseling for Foreclosure
Prevention and free Pre-Purchase Workshops in both English and Spanish. We have
a Re-Entry Program for Returning Citizens who are homeless and that works to
provide Rapid Rehousing and supportive case management. Unfortunately, currently
our Re-Entry program is full at the moment. We traditional offer clothing from our
clothing closet and prescription assistance. Due to COVID-19, our office is currently
closed to the public, however all pantry services are being done curb-side for both
drivers and walkers. Case management is being handled remotely, with
accommodating options based on client’s capability of submitting needed documents.
Lastly, we have a HUB program. The HUB is a partnership between four local
agencies: Cornerstone Community Development Corporation, South Suburban
PADS, Together We Cope and Respond Now. Together is help to provide nonfinancial assistance but rather information and referrals to the community. The HUB
serves to assist clients with navigating available resources that they may qualify for.