Why donate to Chicago HOPES?

Chicago HOPES is the only program of its kind in the city of Chicago, offering tutoring and enrichment programming to K-8 students living in shelters or other transitional living facilities around the city. Chicago HOPES is volunteer-based. Your donation will to directly to supporting the program. You can help continue to provide safe, supportive space, dedicated adults, and other opportunities and supplies that will help our students succeed academically despite the instability of homelessness. 

Is my donation tax-deductible? 

Yes! Chicago HOPES is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible. 

How much per semester supports one student in the program?

$50/semester supports one Chicago HOPES student. Keep in mind that the donation doesn't go directly to an individual student's costs, due to confidentiality reasons, but rather covers the average costs for a student enrolled in the program. The program is FREE to students, so program costs refers to the supplies and resources necessary to make the program possible. 

Is my information secure? 

Yes - we do not share any of your contact information with vendors, individuals, or other organizations. Your name will be listed as a HOPES Supporter, although you can choose not to be listed on this page. 

What is the average donation to Chicago HOPES? 

We receive a wide range of donations, from just a few dollars to the thousands of dollars. Each of these is valuable in helping provide services for our students and growing our base of individual donors. We invite you to give whatever you are able. A common gift is $50, as this amount covers semester program costs for one HOPES student. 

I'm not able to give at this time. What else can I do? 

Even if you're not able to give, you can volunteer or otherwise share the word about Chicago HOPES with those who might be interested. Chicago HOPES provides an important opportunity for the general public to learn about homelessness and the challenges faced by students who find themselves in temporary living situations. Our website features a number of articles about Chicago HOPES and other research on homeless education at large. 

You can also, in conjunction with Chicago HOPES staff, help to organize a supply or fundraising event, even if you can't give money directly. 

My organization wishes to contribute to HOPES. What can we do? 

We welcome a variety of partnerships with local organizations and companies. As mentioned in the previous note, we welcome supply drives. In the past local companies have helped to organize book drives, hygiene drives, Halloween costume drives, or other efforts to provide services to our students. Particular needs right now include feminine hygiene products. 

How can I donate? 

The most direct way to donate to Chicago HOPES is through Google Checkout:

Chicago HOPES

5936 S. Kolmar 

Chicago, IL 60659

For other donation inquiries contact us at chicagohopesforkids@gmail.com.