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About StreetWise
StreetWise provides Chicagoans in need with “a hand up, not a handout.”
StreetWise creates employment opportunities for individuals who are homeless or experiencing poverty. Anyone who wants to work has the opportunity to move themselves out of crisis.
How it all began...
It’s hard to believe that 28 years ago on Aug. 24, 1992, the first edition of StreetWise hit the streets of Chicago. Our founder, Judd Lofchie, found a practical solution to the crisis of homelessness in Chicago. The idea was simple: give homeless men and women a chance to gain economic self-sufficiency, personal dignity, and to help themselves by selling a newspaper to earn an income rather than begging. More than 350 homeless men and women purchased and sold more than 60,000 issues of StreetWise within the first 5 weeks! Selling StreetWise is a job. Our vendors are self-employed entrepreneurs.
Our success is due to the commitment, dedication, and persistence of our StreetWise magazine vendors. They go out each day to greet you – their loyal customers. It is because of your support that our vendors can pay rent, utilities, purchase food and clothing, and even save some money.
STREETWISE MAGAZINE
StreetWise magazine is an award-winning publication that is socially conscious and Chicago-centric. It raises awareness of the impact of poverty and homelessness in Chicago, across the nation, and around the world. StreetWise is among the largest “street papers” in the United States and serves as a model for street papers across North America. The editorial staff work hard to provide intriguing articles about today’s important issues as well as entertaining articles to enhance the reader’s daily life.
S.T.E.P. TO EMPLOYMENT
The S.T.E.P. is our employment preparation and placement program aimed at assisting at-risk job seekers in finding and maintaining sustainable employment. We help individuals eliminate barriers and overcome obstacles to employment and self-sufficiency.
SUPPORT SERVICES
Meeting basic needs by distributing emergency clothing, hygiene kits, and providing hot meals. Staff is on hand to assist with accessing community resources and benefits, referrals for housing, healthcare or legal assistance, and providing emergency support.
