Built by the community, for the community.
Founded in 1975 by a police officer from Arlington Heights, Shelter, Inc. has become a leader in Chicagoland for providing the emotional and physical care, programs and
services that children need to build safer, healthier and brighter futures. We are the only agency in the state of Illinois to provide fully comprehensive and community-based services for children and families at risk and in need.
Each day in Illinois, nearly 200 children will be victims of abuse and neglect.
Our mission is to end the cycle of child abuse by ensuring safe, healthy and nurturing environments to children, their families and our community. Our programs include emergency housing, transitional living, foster care, home visiting, and clinical support services. We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Our Vision and Mission
Our vision is that every child will grow up in a safe and loving home.
Our mission is to end the cycle of child abuse by providing a comprehensive network of support to children, their families and our community to create safe, healthy and nurturing homes.
Since 1975, Shelter, Inc. has been a lifeline to children and families in crisis or suffering from trauma.
Number of People Served
Days of Care Provided
Hours of Service Provided
Volunteer Hours Donated
Support & Resources
Will you open your heart and your home to a child in need?
Are you pregnant or know someone
that is?
Do you know a teen who is in need of housing?
Do you know how to spot and report signs of child abuse?
Our Stories
The Latest from
Our Blog
Human Trafficking: A Hidden Crisis and How You Can Help
Human trafficking of minors is a hidden crisis that affects every community in the United States, yet most people are unaware of its presence. In fact, right here in Illinois, human trafficking occurs every day to children whose average age is 14. By increasing awareness, recognizing warning signs, and supporting survivors, we can protect vulnerable youth and disrupt exploitation networks.
Honoring Black History Month
Janie Porter Barrett, Lester Blackwell Granger, and Fredericka Douglass Sprague Perry, among many others, made invaluable contributions toward improving the lives of Black children in care. As we reflect on their work, it is essential to continue advocating for change today, focusing on equitable policies and support systems for Black youth and families.
Harbour Partnership
Shelter, Inc. is excited to announce its partnership with The Harbour, a Park Ridge-based organization, to expand emergency shelter services for at-risk youth in suburban Cook County. The partnership is made possible through a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, under the Basic Center Program (BCP).
Shelter, Inc. Welcomes Two New Board Members: Rian Spencer and Arlen S. Gould
Shelter, Inc., a leading child welfare agency dedicated to providing safety, stability, and support to children and families in crisis, is pleased to announce the addition of two remarkable community leaders to its Board of Directors: Rian Spencer and Arlen Gould.
Trauma-informed Care Creates a Path Forward
Children are incredibly resilient, but that resilience can often be tested when they experience trauma. For many young people, the emotional scars of trauma can last a lifetime, affecting their mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Shelter, Inc. Breaks Ground on New Home for Youth Survivors of Human Trafficking
Shelter, Inc. is proud to announce the groundbreaking on Illinois’ first DCFS-licensed home for CSEC (Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children), survivors, the first of its kind, with completion expected in 2025.
Upcoming Events & Volunteer Opportunities
Contact Shelter
If you or a child or adolescent you know are in crisis, Shelter, Inc. is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help you locate appropriate services.
To make a referral for placement, call our 24-hour service at 847.255.8060
1616 Arlington Heights Road,
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
