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WNIJ's summary of news items around our state.

Budget Stalemate Affecting People Outside Of Homes

cfthinc.org

The budget impasse between Illinois Republican Governor Bruce Rauner and Democratic leaders in the legislature could make the state's homelessness problem worse for a long time to come.

  

Sue Loellbach is with Connections for the Homeless.

"The longer an adult stays on the street, the more likely it is that they're going to get sick or become sicker. And the more likely that they'll become chronically homeless,” Loellbach said.

Without a budget, many social service programs -- including those that serve the homeless -- have not received funding in the last eight months.

Connections for the Homeless had to close its drop-in center last year. The prevention program has also closed, and its supportive housing program has taken a hit. 

Loelbach says the cut backs have impacted hundreds in the Evanston, where her organization is based. She says they will increase chronic homelessness and child homelessness.

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