Resources for the Unhoused
The Village of Oak Park is committed to addressing homelessness in our community through compassionate, collaborative and equity‑driven approaches.
In partnership with local and regional service providers, governmental partners and community organizations, the Village works to support residents experiencing homelessness by funding emergency shelter, strengthening access to essential services and coordinating long‑term solutions that promote stability and well‑being.
This work reflects the Village’s core values of equity, integrity, accountability and service. Oak Park strives to ensure that all residents, including those who are unhoused, are treated with dignity and provided meaningful pathways to support.
Guided by the Village Board’s goals, the Community Services Division prioritizes public safety, community health and inclusive engagement while pursuing strategic initiatives that reduce barriers, improve service outcomes and enhance quality of life for all.
Ways the Village support unhoused individuals
E.C.H.O. Program
The Village's E.C.H.O. Program is an innovative initiative designed to enhance community safety and well-being by offering responses to non-emergency and low-risk calls for service through 911 dispatch. This program reflects Oak Park’s commitment to reimagining public safety and meeting the diverse needs of our neighbors.
Oak Park Police Department
The Oak Park Police Department is committed to supporting the well‑being and safety of all community members, including residents experiencing homelessness. In alignment with the Village’s guiding principles, the Police Department emphasizes compassionate engagement, problem solving and strong collaboration with service partners. Officers work closely with the Village’s ECHO program and local non‑profit organizations to help connect unhoused individuals with emergency shelter, crisis support and pathways to stable housing. These coordinated efforts have already led to successful placements and continue to strengthen the community’s overall response to homelessness. Police Department personnel maintain a visible presence near transit stations and other public areas to promote safety, provide outreach opportunities and address behaviors that pose risks to individuals or the broader community.
Oak Park Homelessness Coalition
The Village of Oak Park is an active member of the Oak Park Homelessness Coalition, working alongside more than 50 local businesses and service agencies to address homelessness through coordinated, compassionate and data‑informed strategies. As part of this collaborative effort, the Coalition advocates for equitable solutions through outreach and education to community members and businesses. The Coalition’s integrated network of services, strengthens the community’s ability to support residents on a path toward stability and long‑term housing.
What can I do to help?
Volunteer
Community members play an important role in supporting the Village’s efforts to assist unhoused residents. If you are interested in contributing to a safer and more compassionate community, consider signing up to volunteer during periods of extreme weather when warming or cooling centers are activated. Volunteer support helps ensure that residents facing crisis have access to safe spaces, essential resources, and a welcoming environment. To learn more or sign up, please visit the Village’s Community Volunteer page.
Street Outreach Card
The Oak Park Homelessness Coalition created a street outreach card that can be distributed to individuals experiencing homelessness. Click the link below to download and print the card. Copies are also available at Village Hall, 123 Madison St.