Every November, communities across the country unite to recognize National Homelessness Awareness Month — a time dedicated to understanding the challenges faced by individuals and families experiencing homelessness, and recommitting ourselves to the work of prevention, compassion, and change.
The History of Homelessness Awareness Month
Homelessness Awareness Month traces its roots back to the National Coalition for the Homeless, which began its awareness efforts in the late 1970s and 1980s as homelessness became a visible crisis across American cities. In 1987, Congress passed the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, marking a national commitment to addressing homelessness through housing, services, and education initiatives. Since then, November has been recognized as a month to reflect, educate, and mobilize communities toward solutions that ensure everyone has a place to call home.
Why This Month Matters for Chicago
Chicago is a city of incredible resilience — but also of deep housing disparities. Thousands of Chicagoans face housing instability each year, and many live one financial emergency away from losing their home. Homelessness Awareness Month gives us space to highlight the systemic challenges behind homelessness — from rising rents to limited access to affordable housing — and to amplify the stories of individuals striving for stability and dignity.
The Role of The Chicago Low-Income Housing Trust Fund
At the Chicago Low-Income Housing Trust Fund (CLIHTF), we believe that homelessness prevention begins with access to permanent, affordable housing. Our programs provide critical rental assistance to extremely low-income households, helping Chicagoans stay in their homes and avoid entering the cycle of homelessness. By supporting landlords, residents, and community partners, we ensure that stability and opportunity go hand in hand.
This month, we recommit to our mission:
To provide affordable housing opportunities that prevent homelessness and promote housing stability for Chicago’s most vulnerable residents.
How You Can Be Part of the Solution
During Homelessness Awareness Month, we encourage our partners and community members to:
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Learn more about the realities of homelessness and housing insecurity in Chicago.
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Support local organizations that provide shelter, housing, and supportive services.
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Advocate for policies and funding that expand affordable housing access.
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Wear purple throughout November — the official color of Homelessness Awareness Month — to show your support and help spark conversations about the importance of stable housing for all.
Together, we can make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring — and ensure that every Chicagoan has a safe place to call home.
Stay Connected with CLIHTF
Stay informed and inspired all year long by visiting our CLIHTF Blog for updates, important information, housing insights, and tips on how you can support our mission. Each month, we share stories, resources, and highlights that showcase the power of housing stability in changing lives.