We have always known that READI Chicago is a public health approach, and now we are seeing that reality through new eyes. As we navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that we continue to prioritize violence prevention as a strategy that serves our overall efforts to mitigate the risks of COVID-19, while paying special attention to the needs of people of color, who are disproportionately contracting and dying of this virus here in Chicago.
As we limit face-to-face interactions as much as possible, we recognize the continued need for our participants to provide for themselves and their families. We are continuing to provide stipends to participants for engagement in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and professional development (PD). Thanks to our funders, we have been able to shift from transitional employment to conditional cash transfers until safe work experiences can resume.
Even as we deal with the challenges of shifting the READI Chicago experience, we are seeing the strength and resilience of our participants and hear that our men feel connected during this crisis. Participants are reaching out to us for support. That says a lot, given how isolated and disconnected many of these men felt before their involvement with READI Chicago.
Eric, for example, has been a participant in READI Chicago for almost 18 months and said the program is helping to keep violence down as Chicagoans shelter in place, providing people with resources so they do not need to leave their homes, and educating communities on the best ways to stay safe. Eric said the most helpful part has been the support and encouragement he has continued to receive from READI Chicago staff.
“Going to work keeps a lot of stuff off my mind during the day, so it’s been stressful being stuck in the house,” Eric said. “Having CBT every day is honestly helping a lot. It’s helping me stay positive and focused.”
More ways to get involved
- Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to stay updated on the latest developments with our work.
- Share stories of our courageous participants and employees, and help us spread accurate information about how to keep vulnerable populations safe from COVID-19.
- Make a gift to help employees across the Alliance provide access to critical supportive services to those who are most vulnerable.
- Donate homemade masks to help fight COVID-19.
We are grateful for the support and care you have for the individuals we serve, and for our employees who are on the frontlines every day.
