Shelter Inc's Transitional Living Program Hosts Open House Celebrating Work of Many

An open house on Tuesday August 30 was the culmination of hard work and dedication by community donors and volunteers who transformed a well-used house into a new and welcoming home for the residents of Shelter, Inc.'s Transitional Living Program (TLP).

Shelter's 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. Their two-year residential TLP helps young people ages 17-21, who were previously in the custody of the Illinois Dept. of Children and Family Services (DCFS) learn how to live on their own and prepares them for adulthood.

Guests who visit any of Shelter's group homes are always surprised at their family-style environments, and the new TLP is no exception.

"Thanks to our caring community members," said Carina Santa Maria, Shelter's executive director, "our residents have a beautiful new house they deserve, and which anyone would be proud to call home."

Before purchasing the property, the TLP was renting a house at another Arlington Heights location. It took more than a year filled with challenges before residents could move into their new accommodations.

"Our program is voluntary, and always has a waiting list," said Santa Maria, "because it offers our young people something they've never had: a real chance for a successful, independent life."

Founded in 1975, by the community and for the community, Shelter is 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.. Learn more by visiting shelter-inc.org or calling 847-255-8060.