Shelter and drop-in services address the immediate needs of our community
Our drop-in centers help people in crisis access the most basic necessities.
We provide trauma-informed services that help our participants move beyond meeting their day-to-day needs and start thinking about their future. This includes resources to help those in need find shelter, in addition to our daytime drop-in centers that include case management, health and wellness services, showers, laundry, food, clothing, and storage.
Need immediate assistance? Let us help you.
Shelter and Drop-in Services
The Margarita Inn
Connections shelters about 64 individuals/families at a time as they move towards a permanent housing solution.
Overnight Shelter
Connections currently does not have an emergency overnight shelter. Here’s a list of resources that may be of assistance.
Drop In
We offer supportive services and basic necessities for those in crisis, including showers, food, and clothing.
Stories of Success: Cynthia
After fleeing a domestic violence situation, "Cynthia" had been living on the streets in Evanston off and on for at least six months when she came to our drop-in center. A few weeks later, Cynthia got a job at a nursing home, making a little over $12/hour, but still had nowhere to sleep at night or keep her belongings. Over the next eight months, we helped her secure her basic needs, including food and clothing, a place to take a shower, do laundry and store her things. Most importantly, we connected her to a case manager who could help her locate long-term housing. When Cynthia needed a bus card, Connections provided it, and when she needed a uniform for work, Connections purchased it.
While homeless, Cynthia was awarded employee of the month — a true testament to her resilience and courage. A few months ago, Cynthia moved into her own apartment. We provided the move-in fee and first month’s rent so that she could continue to build her rainy day fund.