About the Program
Expanding Mental Health Access to ALL Community Members
Our Mission
Approved by the community, governed by the community.
Our mission is to ensure transparent, community-driven governance of mental health services across Chicago’s near southwest side neighborhoods — bringing accountable leadership to a voter-approved program.
The Near Southwest Side Expanded Mental Health Services Program was approved with 79% of the vote in 2024. The Governing Commission now meets monthly to plan for a new mental health center serving all residents of our community.
The Funding
How is it funded?
The program is funded by a .025% increase in property taxes — equivalent to $4 for every $1,000 you currently pay in property taxes. All funds stay local and can only be spent on mental health services.
The Impact
What will these funds do?
By law, every dollar stays local in the community and can only be spent on mental health services for those who need them.
- Provide direct mental health services for any resident in the area who needs assistance in overcoming or coping with mental health or emotional challenges, regardless of age or ability to pay.
- Establish a new community mental health center to provide these services.
- Restore other vital mental health services such as outreach in our schools, veteran services, preventative outreach, and family counseling.
Where We Serve
Neighborhoods Served
- Little Village
- Pilsen
- McKinley Park
- Bridgeport
- Armour Square
Established
2024
Approved with 79% of the vote by the community it serves.
