'It Can Be Exceptionally Hard On Those Experiencing Homelessness:' Joliet State Rep. Natalie Manley Declares

(The following press release came from State Representative Natalie Manley.)

JOLIET, IL — State Representative Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, and Representative Dagmara Avelar toured the Daybreak and Morningstar shelters in Joliet on Friday, Aug. 21.

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Both facilities operate under the Will County Continuum of Care, which connects individuals and families experiencing homelessness with emergency shelter, transitional housing, and homelessness-prevention services. Daybreak is operated by Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet.

"With prices on the rise and the cost of living continuing to challenge people, it can be exceptionally hard on those experiencing homelessness," Representative Manley said. "The work these organizations do every day is essential to ensuring that people's basic needs are met."

Daybreak accommodates approximately 95 guests at any given time, while its Shepherd's Table program provides three hot meals each day to anyone in need. Upon arrival, each guest is paired with a case manager who helps identify immediate needs and develop a plan for accessing additional services.

"Our job is to help people achieve their goals through a trauma-informed lens," said Joely Johnson of Catholic Charities' Community Services Division. "We want people to feel safe and secure, no matter the length of their stay."

Morningstar also plays a vital role in addressing food insecurity and homelessness in the community. In July alone, the shelter served more than 10,000 meals, with much of that work made possible by dedicated volunteers.

The shelters additionally partner with the Will-Grundy Medical Clinic to conduct street outreach for individuals who are not connected to the shelter system. This outreach relies heavily on referrals from members of the public, who can help connect people experiencing homelessness with medical care, shelter, and other essential resources.