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
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.
With Your Support, We Accomplished So Much in Child Welfare Last Year!
As the fiscal year 2023-2024 fiscal year endeds, we reflected on our growth, excellence accomplishments, and community connections. Together we have been able to help children and families break the cycle of abuse and neglect and realize their goals and dreams.
Back-to-School: Supporting Mental Health
Academic pressure, social expectations and different environments can trigger a rise in anxiety. Schools are more aware than ever of mental health needs for students, yet there are still things you can do at home to support a strong start to the school year for you and your child’s mental health.
Daily Herald, July 17, 2024
Housing for girls and young women who are victims of commercial sexual exploitation and domestic trafficking is expected to open next year in Palatine.
Shelter, Inc. Awarded Cook County Behavioral Health Grant
Shelter, Inc. is pleased to announce that it is the recipient of a grant from Cook County Health’s Stronger Together: Building a More Equitable Behavioral Health System in Cook County Initiative.
Celebrating Pride Month: Reflections from a Child of the 60’s
There were several times when my parents had to have crucial but uncomfortable conversations with me – I was a very curious kid, but there was a lot happening, so naturally I had questions about it. The Stonewall Riots sparked the gay rights activism that we celebrate today. Everyone should have the ability to live their lives as we see fit, isn’t that what this country was supposed to be founded upon?
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
