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 “Support the Poor”. 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
- Salvation Army Representative
- Holiday Programs
GENERAL ASSISTANCE
General Assistance (GA) is a public assistance program mandated by state law for adults with financial needs who are not eligible for State (TANF) or Federal (SSI) Programs. GA provides monthly allotments to meet an individual's basic needs. Interested individuals can apply at the Township's General Assistance Office. 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 which apply consistently to all those who apply.
EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE
Emergency Assistance (EA) is available to families with children who are facing an emergency situation that is work related or life threatening (i.e. eviction, utility disconnection, and transportation). Interested individuals can apply at the Township's General Assistance Office. Applicants must be residents of Wheeling Township and United States Citizens or qualified immigrants. In addition, applicants must meet all financial and non-financial eligibility requirements which apply consistently to all those who apply. Families and individuals receiving TANF or SSI are ineligible for Emergency Assistance.
ACCESS TO CARE
Access to Care is a program for low-income residents that provides primary health care coverage. Applicants must reside in Cook County and meet financial eligibility requirements. The coverage includes doctors’ office visits, prescriptions and laboratory work. For more information and for an appointment please call the General Assistance office.
FOOD PANTRY
The Food Pantry is stocked by donations received from the community. Wheeling Township residents who need food due to financial difficulties, or who are in the process of applying for DHS Food Stamps, may use the pantry.
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.
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 $20 charge for each visit for patients who are not on Medicaid or General Assistance Clients must register at the township, by appointment only. No walk-ins allowed.
HOLIDAY PROGRAMS
Through donations provided by Wheeling Township residents, we provide food baskets and Christmas gifts to needy residents during the Holiday Season. Financial eligibility required.
Donors:
The Adopt-A-Family Program has long been a tradition at Wheeling Township. It presents an opportunity for compassionate people in our community to share in the holiday spirit by adopting low-income families with a pledge to supply basic needs and perhaps fulfill some of their holiday dreams and wishes. Because of the generosity of the many sponsors and the faithful help of our volunteers, over 1,500 recipients experienced much joy during the 2004 holiday season. We have our caring and generous community to thank!
For donor participation guidelines please refer to our Fall 2005 Newsletter or call the Wheeling Township General Assistance Dept. 847-259-7730.
Participants:
If you are a resident in need of food and gifts during the holiday season, and would like to participate in our Adopt-A-Family program, please call 847-259-7730 to see if you qualify.
SALVATION ARMY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
The Prospect Heights Salvation Army Representative is on staff and able to dispense financial help to residents who meet the Salvation Army welfare guidelines.
Wheeling Township is ready to answer your questions.
Please feel free to contact us at (847) 259-7730
ALL SERVICES ARE PROVIDED BY APPOINTMENT ONLY