The Community Foundation for McHenry County recently hosted a Listening Session with the Illinois Deputy Governor of Health and Human Services, Grace Hou. Nonprofit leaders, service providers, and residents came together for an open and honest discussion about the unique challenges women—particularly single mothers—face in McHenry County, including housing, childcare, workforce participation, and healthcare.
Attendees shared firsthand insights on how their services are supporting residents and how cuts to benefits are expected to further strain an already overextended safety net. Food pantries, housing providers, childcare organizations, and family service agencies all reported increases in demand, concerns that are likely to intensify as policy changes take effect.
Representatives from the Home of the Sparrow, Crystal Lake Food Pantry, Brown Bear Daycare, Family Health Partnership, Turning Point, Youth and Family Center, and other local agencies highlighted both the emotional and practical toll these challenges take on the community. Many expressed concern about keeping up with the growing needs, even as they continue to innovate and find new ways to support families.
The session underscored a key message that The Community Foundation hears consistently across the county: no single organization can address these challenges alone.
At The Community Foundation for McHenry County, we are committed to serving as a convener, connector, and catalyst, bringing together community partners, sharing information, and fostering collaborative approaches to support solutions that address both urgent needs and long-term systemic challenges.
Together, we will continue to listen, learn, and respond to the needs of our community, ensuring that McHenry County residents have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.
