General Assistance

Tannika M. Hughes

Director

708-596-6040 ext. 3134

tmhughes@thorntontwp.com

The General Assistance program operates at the local level, providing financial aid to individuals who are ineligible for state or federal assistance and lack the financial means or resources to meet their fundamental needs. These necessities may include shelter, food, household supplies, utilities, personal essentials, medical expenses, and other vital costs crucial to ensuring the health and well-being of individuals and families.

For more information, please call 708-596-6040, ext. 3132 or 3147.

At Thornton Township, we’re here to help!

Individuals can submit their applications at our township office. Applicants will be evaluated by General Assistance representatives. Those who may not qualify for General Assistance through the township may be directed to other agencies better suited to address their specific needs, such as the Social Security Administration, the Illinois Department of Public Aid, Family Services, IDES, the Salvation Army, HMIS, and Mental Health Clinics, among others.

FAQ Emergency Mortgage AssistanceFAQ Emergency Rental AssistanceHMIS Agency Privacy NoticeCommunity Resource Fair

General Assistance provides a range of other activities including:

Access to Care

A program aimed at assisting economically disadvantaged, uninsured individuals in accessing essential primary healthcare services, such as pharmacy, laboratory, and radiology services, is available. This program offers diagnosis and treatment at a modest fee for each visit. To get enrolled, a qualified medical caseworker will carry out an eligibility assessment, and you can complete the enrollment process by visiting our township office at the following contact number: 708-596-6040 Ext. 3137.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program: The Illinois Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is tailored to aid eligible low-income households in covering winter energy expenses. LIHEAP extends a one-time benefit to qualifying households for use towards energy bills. The exact payment amount is determined based on factors such as income, household size, fuel type, and geographical location.

General Assistance Social Worker

A Social Worker provides support to individuals applying for Social Security Benefits and Public Aid, particularly those facing literacy and other challenges. Additionally, they assist in relocating homeless and abused individuals to safe and stable shelters, make appropriate referrals for clients dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues, and offer guidance in completing complex forms and applications. Lastly, our social worker collaborates with the Salvation Army to assist individuals who may not qualify for other assistance programs in securing a one-time emergency subsidy, distinct from ongoing general assistance.

“Workfare”

“Workfare” Program: This program allows recipients of general assistance to earn their benefits through work carried out for taxing districts. While recipients do not receive direct payment, they accumulate credits for hours worked, aligned with the federal minimum wage standard. These credits are offset against the amount of the basic maintenance grants, excluding medical payments or the value of food stamps.

GED PROGRAM

Thornton Township supports a General Education Diploma (GED) program aimed at assisting students in obtaining their high school equivalency degree. Classes are conducted from Monday to Friday. For additional details about the program, please contact us at 708-596-6040 ext. 3180.