April We Moved!
The move from Uptown to the South Loop had been in the works for almost a year. After surveying vendors and prospective program participants, it became clear that a location more accessible to the South and West Sides would ease transportation and commuting barriers and open up StreetWise as an option for more people. Thanks to Deana Haynes, Deanna Becker and Brian Mays of JLL, StreetWise found the perfect new home at 2009 S. State St. Thanks go to our new landlords from Windy City RE and our architect Geri Kelley of MKB Architects. The design, construction, and feel of the space represents the dignity and respect that all of our vendors and job seekers deserve. The new headquarters is a walk-up storefront where vendors can purchase their magazines. It features an open layout common area with a brand new kitchen for our food and nutrition program, plenty of storage for our coats, blankets, hygiene supplies, and other donations, and of course, plenty of room for our hardworking staff who empower people to work each day.
Providing Food & World Central Kitchen
We had so many amazing partners to provide to-go meals and pantry items throughout the entire year. From weekly chicken/ribs from Carsons, to Gate Gourmet, Southwest Airlines, and so many families. We also began an AMAZING partnership with Kristi Katz and her team at World Central Kitchen. Local area restaurants deliver meals to StreetWise to be distributed to those in need at our offices at 2009 S. State St. Some restaurant partners include The Fat Shallot, Gibsons, ROOH, Lightly Toasted, Swift & Sons, Manny’s Deli, DineAmic Hospitality, and more, who have donated nutritious meals to make sure our vendors are full and healthy. This partnership truly made lockdown more bearable for many vendors by having access to delicious and nutritious food. Since this partnership began, WCK has delivered 11,500 meals.
In Memorium: Oscar Russell
Oscar Russell was a long-time vendor who worked with StreetWise for over 20 years. He sold his magazines at the Barnes & Noble on Webster Avenue and Clybourn Street and at the Starbucks on Wrightwood and Racine Avenues. A friend of his, Murry Mills, lived with Oscar for a couple of years and described him as a goodhearted guy who always treated him with love and respect. Mills was introduced to StreetWise through Oscar and was taught all the tips and tricks of selling magazines. Because of Oscar, Murry was able to meet the people at StreetWise whom he now considers as family. StreetWise will remember you and all your hard work, Oscar.
