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With the belief that networking and advocacy are key components to addressing long-term hunger issues, the Chicago Anti-Hunger Federation founded and administers a new, rapidly expanding service provider network dedicated to serving those in need. Named the Westside Providers Network, the group is made up of a variety of human service providers serving the Westside of Chicago.

The group's immediate goals are to use its collective talents and relationships to provide services to those in need in the most timely and responsive manner possible and to disseminate information on activities, opportunities, and actions of relevance to the Westside community. The group's long-term goals include: community organizing to address systemic poverty issues, connecting with other coalitions and initiatives throughout Chicago, and developing community-wide collaborations for the betterment of the Westside. CAHF is working towards these goals by recruiting new member agencies, utilizing technology to share resources, bringing the network together to meet and learn, and directing committee formation based on member interest.

To date, over 80 diverse community organizations serving the Westside are participating in the network. The membership includes social service agencies, universities, federal, state and city government offices, religious leaders, law enforcement, and community advocates.

The Westside Providers Network members provide basic human needs in areas such as food, clothing, housing, job training, legal assistance, domestic violence prevention and intervention, health services, youth services, utility assistance, and senior services.

Westside Providers Network member organizations serve over 84 thousand men, women, and children on the Westside and throughout the city. The Network is a powerful force in advocating and providing basic human needs.

The Chicago Anti-Hunger Federation also participates in alliances with the Illinois Hunger Coalition, Heartland Alliance, From Poverty to Opportunity Campaign, Chicago Food Policy Advisory Council, and other organizations that target hunger and public welfare issues.

For information on how to be a part of The Westside Providers Network, please contact

Dan Gibbons: dgibbons@antihunger.org