In response to the lack of resources and support for neighbors experiencing homelessness on the Far Northwest Side of Chicago, state Rep. Lindsey LaPointe (D-Chicago) and colleagues secured $13 million in state capital funding to support the construction and development of a shelter for older adults in Chicago’s 30th Ward.
The Northwest Side Working Group is seeking qualified shelter operators to play a significant role in the following activities:
- Helping identify and evaluate potential sites.
- Participating in facility planning and design.
- Leading or partnering in the community engagement process.
- Pursuing predevelopment resources.
- Helping develop the shelter’s operating model.
- Owning the property and operating the shelter.
The purpose of this Request for Qualifications (RFQ) is to identify experienced organizations that may have the qualifications, interest, and capacity to participate in future planning and potentially serve as the shelter operator and/or owner-operator. This RFQ is intended as an initial qualification process and does not constitute a funding opportunity, contract award, or commitment to proceed.
To learn more and access the materials, please visit https://iff.org/rfps/. More information on the funding can be found in this FAQ.
Responses are due September 25, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Please reach out to arloasutter@gmail.com if you have questions in the meantime.
