Homelessness

The United Way of Pekin is dedicated to addressing and alleviating homelessness in our community. This page is a resource for understanding the support systems available for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Our commitment is to provide compassionate assistance and practical solutions to those in need.

We collaborate with local shelters, housing assistance programs, and support services aimed at offering immediate relief and long-term solutions to homelessness. These resources include emergency shelter, transitional housing, and support services designed to help individuals regain stability and independence.

Tackling homelessness is not just about providing a roof over one's head; it's about addressing the underlying issues and supporting a journey back to self-sufficiency. We invite you to explore these resources, whether you are in need of assistance or looking to contribute to this vital cause. Together, we can work towards a future where everyone in our community has a place to call home.

An Ongoing Issue

Chronic homelessness, which refers to individuals experiencing long-term or repeated episodes of homelessness, has been increasing both in numbers and as a percentage of the homeless population in Illinois.

Illinois has implemented the "Home Illinois" plan, which aims to prevent and end homelessness through a combination of established and innovative strategies. This plan involves collaboration among state government, community agencies, and residents to prevent homelessness and ensure that when it does occur, it is brief and non-recurring. (Illinois Department of Human Services).

Number of People Experiencing Homelessness in Illinois (2022)

Housing Action Illinois

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) has made historic investments in homelessness prevention and emergency housing programs, including a $200.3 million budget for fiscal year 2024, which includes funding for emergency and transitional housing programs and homelessness prevention initiatives (Housing Action Illinois).

Nelson Mandela -

“Freedom is meaningless if people cannot put food in their stomachs, if they can have no shelter, if illiteracy and disease continue to dog them.”

Distribution of Homeless Subpopulations in Illinois

Trends in Homelessness in Illinois (2007-2022)

Homelessness Resources From Partner Agencies

Food resources such as food pantries and hot food can be found on this page.
Christian Civic Outreach can provide various clothing and items when available. Call 309-347-2639 to connect with their organization. They are located at 515 S. 3rd St. Pekin IL 61554.
Please note that these centers may or may not be open at any given time. Please call ahead to verify they are open for warming or cooling operations in extreme weather conditions
- Salvation Army Pekin Rust Transitional Center: 235 Derby Street Pekin, 309-346-3010 or 309-478-7878
- North Pekin Village Hall: 206 Lincoln Boulevard, N. Pekin 309-382-3464
- Pekin Outreach Initiative Center: Open to those experiencing homelessness. Currently located at 515 Elizabeth St, Pekin. 309-200-0307
- Pekin Police Department: 111 S. Capitol St, Pekin. 309-346-3132
- Pekin Public Library: 301 S. Fourth St. Pekin. 309-347-7111
- Tazewell County Sheriff's Office: 101 S. Capitol St. Pekin. 309-346-4141
The Pekin Outreach Initiative is open on Elizabeth Street as a daytime shelter throughout the week.
The Salvation Army - Pekin Rust Transitional Shelter. Open to all populations, please call first. 309-478-7878 or 309-346-3010. 235 Derby St. Pekin
Center for Prevention of Abuse. Open to anyone fleeing abuse or domestic violence. They have a Pekin and Peoria location. Both of these numbers are staffed 24/7. 309-691-0551 or 1-800-559-7233
Pekin Outreach Initiative provides laundry and shower services. They are located at 515 Elizabeth Street currently, until renovations are completed at the Salvation Army building on Derby Street. You can call POI at 309-200-0307