Center of Concern and State Homelessness Office Convene Local Mayors to Discuss Housing Needs

The Center of Concern and the Illinois Office to Prevent and End Homelessness hosted a regional mayoral roundtable today focused on homelessness and coordinated community planning across north suburban Cook County.

Christine Haley, Chief Homelessness Officer for the State of Illinois, delivered a presentation about challenges facing suburban communities. The session was followed by a moderated discussion and question-and-answer period with local leaders.

Representatives from approximately ten municipalities participated in the event, including mayors, city managers, and senior municipal staff. The conversation emphasized shared challenges, the value of consistent communication, and opportunities for intergovernmental collaboration to address homelessness.

"No single community can solve housing instability on its own. We are strongest when local governments, community-based service providers, and state partners share information, communicate openly, and work together toward practical, coordinated solutions," said Nicole Coomer, Executive Director of Center of Concern.

The roundtable was held at Des Plaines City Hall and included welcomes from co-hosts Nicole Coomer, Center of Concern; Andrew Goczkowski, City of Des Plaines; and Marty Maloney, City of Park Ridge. Chief Haley provided a presentation from the Illinois Office to Prevent and End Homelessness, and the event ended with a facilitated dialogue among local leaders about emerging issues and long-term planning needs.

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The Center of Concern’s mission is to provide housing assistance, support services, and counseling for older adults, people with disabilities, and others in need, enabling them to live with dignity and independence. The Center of Concern’s website is www.centerofconcern.org.