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Last week, the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) Board of Commissioners approved a contract for YWCA Metropolitan Chicago to serve as the FamilyWorks Agency for Service Area 1 which includes Dearborn Homes in Bronzeville and Cabrini Green Rowhouses on the near northside. In addition, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago will provide FamilyWorks services to CHA residents living in scattered site housing across the northside, including Uptown, Edgewater and Rogers Park.

"We are thrilled that CHA entrusted us with this new opportunity," stated Dorri McWhorter, CEO of YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. "We know the residents of CHA will benefit greatly from the comprehensive support services we will be able to provide to them not only as FamilyWorks participants, but also as YWCA clients with full access to a range of YWCA programs and services."

YWCA Metropolitan Chicago is the oldest and largest women's service organization in the Region, with a mission to eliminate racism and empower women. With a trauma-informed approach, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago is a leading service provider in the areas of sexual violence support services, early childhood and child care provider services, family support services, youth STEM programming, and economic empowerment services.

"We are prepared to bring the full heft of YWCA programming to our FamilyWorks clients and know that doing so will help CHA residents work through barriers to empowerment and allow them to thrive," added Loren Simmons, YWCA's Chief Empowerment Officer, who will oversee the delivery of the FamilyWorks program.

FamilyWorks, CHA's Family Centered Coaching program, is the cornerstone of CHA's services for family public housing and Housing Choice Voucher participants. The YWCA will be administering the FamilyWorks program, providing comprehensive support including direct clinical services, employment assessment and preparation, digital literacy and financial education services, as well as resources and referrals for residents of CHA who reside in the assigned Service Area. Mary Howard, CHA's Chief Resident Services Officer echoed YWCA's enthusiasm "We are excited to have YWCA join our group of experienced service providers, and share in our mission to support families. We look forward to working with them and the complement of services that they will offer to CHA residents."