Social Services referrals extended to community partners

LOMBARD, Illinois—Since it began in June, the Village of Lombard Social Services program has had numerous referrals from various departments of the Village. And now, community partners may also make referrals on behalf of someone who may need assistance.

The program, which was recommended by the Village's Community Relations Committee, aims to assists residents of Lombard with various social services. Its purpose is to “assist distraught victims which allows emergency personnel to concentrate on departmental tasks and less on social/psychological needs of the victims,” as stated by the Association for Individual Development. Prior to this program, some of these situations were being responded to by police officers or firefighters, keeping them from being available for emergency or other calls for service.

The Village has held orientation sessions for employees and community partners to educate them on the program, how it works and what services are offered. In addition, Victim Services, the agency the Village has contracted with for these services, has offered to make a presentation to any community group, school, church group or others who are interested in learning about the program and its offerings.

“Whether the hotline is called once a month or 100 times a month, the Village is paying the same amount,” said Joanne Furnas, Director of Crisis Services for the Association for Individual Development of which Victim Services is a part. “Our hope is that no one ever has to use these services but if they do, we are here,” she added.

Victims Services was recently asked to assist a parent and small children that, due to family violence, needed emergency shelter, relayed Furnas. Victims Services contacted numerous shelters, finally locating one in the area and transported the family there. Follow up was done with the family to provide extended shelter and clothing for the family. During one of the last conversations with the parent, the parent stated how grateful they were to have Victims Services there in their time of need,” Furnas added.

To inquire about a speaker for a community meeting, please contact Joelyn Kott, Communications Coordinator, at (630) 620-5718 or by email at kottj@villageoflombard.org. There is no charge for the presentations as they are a part of the Village's contract with the agency.

“Several community groups have attended the orientation session and are very grateful to have access to these services,” said Kott. “Thus far, Lombard elementary schools, the middle school, high schools, the library and some places of worship, as well as the Tri-Town YMCA, have participated in an orientation session.

Through the end of August, some 37 referrals had been made from Village departments to Victim Services.

Referrals may be made by anyone on behalf of the Village. To make a referral or for self-help, call the 24-hour crisis line at (630) 966-9393 and ask for “victim services.”