You Can Support Janice and More Chicagoans Like Her
Many underprivileged and marginalized Chicagoans have been paying attention to the resources poured into the recent migrant crisis and are feeling unsupported, frustrated, and in some cases offended. For decades, communities have been pleading for more affordable housing and battling against disinvestment. Increases in funding for housing and community programs should be perceived as a net positive. That said, we must ensure the needs of our current residents are not sacrificed during this already-pressing time for this city.
With your help, we can demonstrate that we care about the people in Chicago and fortify their efforts to improve their situation. The Renaissance Collaborative, Inc (TRC) has always prioritized those in our community who lack access to housing and other resources. We provide supportive housing to formerly homeless adults and low-income seniors and are continually working to create more units. Your support is vital to the continuation of services for our residents and to progress the creation of more housing for vulnerable populations.
Below you will find a link to the deeply personal story of Janice, a resident who had a rough start at TRC but has made impressive strides in her personal growth in the last year and has no plans to slow down. It is worth your time to read her both heartbreaking and inspirational story. Janice is just one example of a person your donation today will help in the upcoming year, but there are up to 200 residents in TRC buildings each year with equally compelling stories and accomplishments.
Janice’s story also includes a connection to our next residential development project, Abrams Intergenerational Village (AIV). This building is scheduled to break ground late next year and will include 71 apartments for independent seniors, housing-insecure youth, and grandparents with dependent grandchildren, aka “GrandFamilies.” Once you read Janice’s story, you’ll see there is very little support for grandparents who suddenly become responsible for their grandchildren. There are resources for seniors, there are resources for children, but there are few resources for the unique needs of GrandFamilies. TRC has been working on a solution for over a decade and is excited to share that we have received a commitment of Affordable Housing Tax Credits for this project. Also, donors (both individuals and corporations) may be eligible for an Illinois state tax credit equal to 50% of their donation to help fund the construction of this building. If you’re interested in learning more about this tax credit opportunity, please contact Tara Balcerzak at tbalcerzak@trcwabash.org and we will send you informational material.
We at TRC remain committed in our mission of fostering generational stability and self-sufficiency among Chicago’s most vulnerable. We hope Janice’s story is one that highlights not only the uncertainty of inadequate housing, but the urgency required to alleviate such circumstances. With your generosity, we ensure that households like Janice’s continue to receive valuable support while expanding the same opportunities for others in need.
Sincerely,
Oji Eggleston
Executive Director
An Small Except from Janice's Story: "I have to acknowledge TRC because even though the rehab program taught me how to not use drugs, it didn’t deal with my inner self. I believe God uses people, and I used to shut myself out from people. 'I’m not good enough. Who am I to change?' "
