Wheeling Township General Assistance
...We are here to help!
OUR HISTORY
Wheeling Township was incorporated on April 2, 1850. One very important program established at that time was "Poor Relief". That first program is now known as General Assistance. This locally administered welfare program has helped many residents throughout the years. We are proud of our history of service and look forward to a future of assisting those in need.
PROGRAMS OFFERED:
- General Assistance
- Emergency Assistance
- Food Pantry
- Mobile Dental Clinic
- LIHEAP
- Access to Care
- Salvation Army Representative
- Angel Fund
- Information and Referral
- Seasonal Programs
GENERAL ASSISTANCE
General Assistance (GA) is a public assistance program mandated by state law for qualified individuals with financial needs. GA can provide monthly payments to help individuals meet basic needs. Interested individuals can apply at the Township's General Assistance Department. An applicant must be a resident of Wheeling Township, age 18 or older, and a United States Citizen or qualified immigrant. In addition, an applicant must meet all financial and non-financial eligibility requirements.
EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE
Emergency Assistance (EA) is available to qualified individuals and families facing emergencies that are work related or life threatening (i.e. eviction, utility disconnection, and transportation). Those interested can apply at the Township's General Assistance Office. Applicants must be residents of Wheeling Township, United States Citizens or qualified immigrants and meet financial and non-financial eligibility requirements. Families and individuals receiving TANF or SSI are ineligible for Emergency Assistance.
FOOD PANTRY
The Wheeling Township Food Pantry's purpose is to help reduce hunger among residents who are in need by providing food and essential non-food items on emergency or short-term basis in a compassionate and dignified manner. The Food Pantry is open throughout the year and stocked by donations received from the community. Click here for more information
MOBILE DENTAL CLINIC
The Dental Clinic's mission is to provide necessary dental care to residents who do not have access to dental care due to financial barriers. Township residents whose income is below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify for treatment. There is a $30 charge for each visit. Clients must register at the township, by appointment.
LIHEAP
Low Income Home Energy Assistance, or LIHEAP, helps with heating costs by providing a one-time credit on gas and electric bills during the winter months. Households applying must be below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level and provide documents required to determine eligibility. Payment is made directly to the utility company. Applications are taken in season, by appointment only.
Access to Care is a primary health program serving low-income and uninsured individuals in Cook County. Applicants must meet financial and residency eligibility requirements. The coverage includes doctors' office visits, prescriptions, radiology, and laboratory services. For more information and to make an appointment, please call the General Assistance office.
SALVATION ARMY SERVICE EXTENSION
Wheeling Township serves as a Service Extension Unit administering funds for the Salvation Army. Salvation Army funds are earmarked for emergencies and available once in any 12-month period for qualified residents of Buffalo Grove, Prospect Heights and Wheeling. Individuals or families facing a life threatening circumstance may be helped using Salvation Army welfare guidelines.
COMMUNITY ANGEL FUND
This financial program is supported by donations received from the community. The funds are used to help residents who do not qualify for other Township financial programs and who are facing a life threatening emergency.
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL
Upon request, our staff is available to provide referral and information assistance to local programs and social services agencies. We provide applications and assistance to apply for most Illinois Department of Human Services programs.
SEASONAL PROGRAMS
Through donations provided by the community, Wheeling Township distributes several seasonal programs to needy residents. Financial eligibility is required.
The Giving Garden Program supplements the non-perishables of the food pantry with home grown vegetables donated by residents with gardens.
The School Supplies Program provides low income children with new backpacks filled with supplies so that they can start the school year off right.
Thanksgiving meals, including the turkey and all the traditional fixings, are given to food pantry recipients each November.
The Adopt-A-Family Program exudes the joy of the season with gifts of clothing and toys for low income families each Christmas. Generous donors are matched with a specific family and given their wish list to share the holiday spirit.
To donate to any of these Seasonal Programs or participate as a recipient, please contact the General Assistance Office at 847-259-7730 or via email to JVillarreal@wheelingtownship.com.