Chicago Department of Family and Support Services - Chicago, IL

Chicago Department of Family and Support Services: Trina Davila Community Service Center

A Hub for Community Resilience

The Trina Davila Community Service Center, located at 1615 West Chicago Avenue, serves as a vital outpost of the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS). This facility is part of a citywide network of six Community Service Centers designed to bring essential government resources directly into neighborhoods, functioning as a 'one-stop shop' for residents in need. The center is named in honor of Trina Davila, a dedicated community activist, reflecting the department's commitment to grassroots engagement and localized support. The mission of the DFSS is to support the most vulnerable populations in Chicago-including seniors, children, the homeless, and victims of domestic violence-by providing direct assistance and connecting them with a vast network of community-based organizations. This specific center primarily serves the residents of the West Town, Humboldt Park, and Logan Square communities, acting as a stabilizing force for families facing economic hardship.

Core Services and Case Management

At the heart of the Trina Davila Center's operations is its comprehensive case management system. Professional staff members are available to assess the holistic needs of individuals and families, moving beyond immediate crises to address long-term stability. The center administers the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) programs, which include rental assistance for those facing eviction, utility bill assistance through programs like LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) during enrollment periods, and employment support services. Residents can access computers for job searches, receive help with resume writing, and get referrals to job training programs. The staff creates a welcoming environment where clients are treated with dignity, ensuring that navigating the often complex bureaucracy of city services is as seamless as possible.

Emergency Relief and Human Services

The center plays a critical role in the city's emergency response infrastructure. It operates as a designated Warming and Cooling Center during extreme weather events. When summer temperatures rise to dangerous levels or winter freezes threaten safety, the facility opens its doors to providing a climate-controlled sanctuary for the homeless, seniors, and anyone lacking adequate HVAC systems at home. Additionally, the center serves as an access point for emergency shelter referrals. Individuals experiencing homelessness can visit the center to undergo an assessment and be placed in the city's shelter system. The center also aids in disaster response, assisting victims of house fires or floods by coordinating with the Red Cross and other agencies to provide immediate food, clothing, and temporary housing solutions.

Senior and Family Support

Recognizing the diverse demographics of the area, the Trina Davila Center offers targeted services for seniors and youth. For older adults, the center provides information on the Senior Services Area Agency on Aging, helping them apply for benefits, home-delivered meals, and transportation services. The facility serves as a touchpoint for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, distributing coupons for fresh produce to eligible seniors during the summer. For families, the center assists with applications for the Head Start and Early Head Start programs, promoting early childhood education. They also provide information on after-school programs and summer jobs for youth through the One Summer Chicago initiative, fostering the next generation's development.

Accessibility and Visiting Information

The Trina Davila Community Service Center is strategically located in the West Town neighborhood, easily accessible via public transportation. It sits directly on the Chicago Avenue (Route 66) bus line and is within walking distance of the Ashland Avenue bus routes. The facility is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring that residents with mobility challenges can utilize all services. Visitors should be prepared to present identification and documentation of income or residency when applying for specific assistance programs. While walk-ins are welcome for general information and warming/cooling services, appointments are strongly recommended for in-depth case management and rental assistance applications to ensure staff availability. The center operates during standard city business hours, providing a reliable resource for the community.

• Emergency Shelter: Assessments and referrals for housing.
• Rental Assistance: Grants for eviction prevention.
• Weather Relief: Designated Warming and Cooling Center.
• Senior Services: Benefits counseling and support.
• Job Support: Computer access and employment referrals.