What is Shelter?
Cornerstone Community Outreach (CCO) is an Illinois-based nonprofit 501(c)(3) that provides care and shelter. “Shelter” is a term that needs updating. Two core principles of CCO’s mission statement are “Providing Shelter” and “Accepting People.” A shelter accepts people experiencing homelessness off the streets or out of other dangerous situations into safe refuge, but it doesn’t end there.
CCO has over 35 years of experience providing shelter 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Our welcome extends to families, women, and men. It’s helpful to think of “shelter” as a temporary home with professional, compassionate support, called “wrap-around services.” The support from CCO case managers will look different for everyone because each guest comes from a unique situation requiring a tailored, comprehensive plan to “help them find a home.” Guests stay at CCO for the time needed to get support and move into a home of their own.
Programs and Services
Located in Uptown, Chicago, our programs provide shelter for single women, single men, intact families, and single parent/guardian families. On site services also include casework, three meals a day, a food pantry, and a “free” store with donated clothes, baby, and household items.
Homeless to Housed: Stories of Success
Hundreds of people walk through our doors every day in need of food, clothing, and housing. The stories of their struggle and success are both inspirational and sobering. Be informed about the people affected by homelessness and those who stand in the gap for them.
Volunteering at CCO
We love to partner with volunteers for events, projects, and programs. Sign up for an orientation and participate in one of our many volunteer opportunities.
Giving to CCO
Cornerstone Community Outreach could not succeed in its mission to house those experiencing homelessness without the generosity of others. Be a part of this work by giving a tax deductible donation of goods or finances.
Questions About CCO and Homelessness?
Find information on our social services, statistics, and programs.