In conjunction with The Unity Challenge, the Trust is tracking key indicators of unemployment, hunger and homelessness. The Trust’s new monthly report “Metro Chicago Vital Signs” measures what happens to people and the demands on the not-for-profit sector which provides the safety net services required by the economic crisis. Measurements include the following areas:
- Individuals served by food pantries in the Chicago area
- Food stamp utilization by household in metropolitan Chicago
- Foreclosures in metropolitan Chicago
- Inquiries received by homelessness prevention hotline in Chicago
- Mass layoffs in Illinois
- Unemployment rate in metropolitan Chicago
To download a copy of “Metro Chicago Vital Signs” please visit http://www.cct.org/page10003377.cfm
“The Trust is a first-line funder of hundreds of not-for-profit organizations that are directly in touch with the needs of our community,” says Terry Mazany, president and chief executive officer for the Trust. “Collectively, they report a surge of need for food, housing, and employment – and a desperate need for resources to respond. Building on our 93 year legacy of philanthropy, we are taking a vigorous role in supporting the region’s most vulnerable citizens today, just as we did during The Great Depression.”
The first round of grants from The Unity Challenge will be announced the week of February 1, 2009. Grants from The Unity Challenge will enhance the Trust’s competitive grant making in the basic human needs area. The Trust each month will update “Metro Chicago Vital Signs” at www.cct.org. Financial donations for The Unity Challenge can be made by credit card online at www.cct.org. Checks can be mailed to:
The Unity Challenge
The Chicago Community Trust
111 E. Wacker Drive, Suite 1400
Chicago, IL 60601
Checks should be made payable to The Chicago Community Trust. Checks should include “The Unity Challenge” on the memo line.
About The Chicago Community Trust
For 93 years, The Chicago Community Trust, the region’s community foundation, has connected the generosity of donors with community needs by making grants to organizations working to improve metropolitan Chicago. In 2008, the Trust, together with its donors, granted more than $100 million to not-for-profit organizations. From strengthening community schools to assisting local art programs, from building health centers to helping lives affected by violence, the Trust continues to enhance our region. To learn more, please visit the Trust online at www.cct.org.