Housing Action Illinois is a statewide coalition formed to protect and expand the availability of quality, affordable housing throughout Illinois.
Policy Advocacy
Education & Organizing
We build awareness and activate change by sharing information and real-life stories with policymakers, nonprofit service providers, and the media.
Capacity Building
We help housing counseling agencies and housing developers build their capacity and expand their resources. Together, our impact is greater.
VISTA Network
Report: Rent Unaffordable for Illinoisans Even Before Pandemic
In order to afford a modest apartment in Illinois, renters need to earn $21.30 per hour. This is Illinois’ 2020 Housing Wage, revealed in Out of Reach 2020, a report jointly released in Illinois by Housing Action Illinois and the National Low Income Housing Coalition. With the ongoing pandemic and economic downturn, rental assistance is needed immediately to avoid a wave of evictions in our communities. Learn more and read report »
COVID-19 Resources Related to Housing & Homelessness
Housing Action is compiling vital resources to help those working in homelessness and affordable housing address the COVID-19 virus. Visit our hub to locate guidance for homeless service providers, housing counseling agencies, housing providers and managers, and others. You will also find information about the court system, including evictions and foreclosures, and how to access mortgage and utility assistance. View resources »
COVID-19 Relief for Homeless Service Providers
During the COVID-19 crisis, homeless service providers have had to balance providing much-needed services to even more clients while also meeting new health guidelines. To help support these agencies, Housing Action has regranted $485,000 in COVID-19 relief funds—which we received from the Illinois COVID-19 Response Fund and the National Low Income Housing Coalition—to thirty direct service organizations throughout Illinois that are working to support individuals facing housing instability. Learn more »
Housing Action Awarded $1 Million in Housing Counseling Funds
Housing counselors are already helping clients who are facing housing instability due COVID-19. With a $1 million award from HUD this year, Housing Action will support housing counseling agencies that help families rent or buy safe, affordable homes and prevent foreclosures. In addition to distributing funding, Housing Action offers training and one-on-one guidance to help counseling agencies become more effective, expand their programs, and develop staff skills. Learn more »