READI Chicago
READI Chicago is driven by a goal to create safety and opportunity for the individuals and communities most impacted by gun violence in Chicago. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting daily life around the world, we are not yet seeing a decrease in gun violence on Chicago’s south and west sides.
We are hearing directly from participants that they want to stay engaged with READI Chicago, and we are committed to continuing to deliver robust services to our men to the best of our ability.
What this looks like for READI Chicago is: engaging participants daily online and through mobile platforms to stay connected; reducing the size of in-person cognitive behavioral therapy and professional development groups, and moving these groups online when possible; and reducing the size of work crews to comply with social distancing. Outreach teams are also leading an effort to educate communities about the spread of the virus and to dispel myths.
We have always known that READI Chicago is a public health intervention, and now we are seeing that reality through new eyes. Most importantly, our communities agree – and are coming together in times of crisis.
“What’s really giving me hope through this is seeing the resiliency and tenacity of our participants and staff,” Senior Director Eddie Bocanegra said. “I’m seeing people come together and find new, creative ways to support one another and stay connected, and that’s what’s at the core of READI Chicago.”
Read more about how we will continue services for those most impacted by our city’s gun violence.
Research & Policy
In the Research & Policy Division, we are closely following the federal, Illinois, and Chicago responses to COVID-19. Unfortunately, but not surprisingly, this crisis is exposing the deep gaps and inequities in the public systems that serve our participants and communities throughout the nation.
We are using our expertise to support Heartland Alliance staff and participants as they tackle this crisis, and our policy team and its coalition partners in Protect Our Care Illinois are actively advocating for expanded and affordable health care services. We are also communicating with public officials and partners across the country to fight for policies that help communities access health, nutrition, and financial stability during this difficult time.
As we continue to follow government responses to this crisis, we will keep you up to date on online. Read our current recommendations on how local, state, and federal governments should respond.
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.
