Other Resources
Beyond legal assistance and emergency planning, there are many resources available to meet your needs here in Illinois, and many are available regardless of immigration status.
Housing & food
A comprehensive guide for immigrant communities about their rights as tenants, accessible housing resources, and landlord responsibilities and obligations.
*available in English & Spanish
Search for housing in Illinois
This is a free, online resource for renters and property providers in Illinois. Search for affordable, accessible, and market-rate housing that will fit your needs and budget.
*Available in multiple languages
Search for affordable housing in chicago
If you are looking for an affordable rental unit to call home, see the attached list of affordable rental housing opportunities that have been supported and developed through the City of Chicago.
*Available in multiple languages
Feeding Illinois
Feeding Illinois is the association of Feeding America food banks that serve Illinois. Together, they provide food and other services to every county in Illinois through a vast network of member agencies and specialized feeding programs.
experiencing discrimination?
File a charge with the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR):
File a complaint with the Chicago Commission on Human Relations (CCHR):
Report Hate
An act of hate happens when you are targeted for traits that make you who you are.
This includes being targeted for your actual or perceived immigration status, citizenship, or national origin.
If you experience an act of hate, you can report it and access resources through Help Stop Hate, a free, confidential support line not affiliated with law enforcement.
REPORT BY PHONE: 1-877-458-HATE (4283)
Access a Driver’s License or Identification Card
Apply for the City of Chicago’s CityKey Municipal ID:
The City of Chicago offers a municipal ID for residents of the city. Review this guide for more information on eligibility and to apply:
The city created a new appointment system to remove uncertainty and allow you to reserve a time slot at a CityKey event.
Get a standard driver’s license or State ID:
A new Illinois law allows many immigrants without a social security number to get standard (non-REAL ID) driver's licenses and state IDs:
NOTE: Not all immigrants are able get a REAL ID. Federal limits apply to standard (non-REAL ID) driver's licenses and state IDs. Learn more about REAL ID.
Access public benefits
The Illinois Department of Human Services and Immigrant Serving Organizations across the state are working together to support immigrant access to public benefits. To learn more about each program, click the links below:
Travel Safety
Are you an Illinois resident concerned that the new 2025 travel restrictions might affect your travel plans?
Before you travel, submit your flight details through CAIR-Chicago's online form to be connected with a lawyer who can monitor your journey and provide immediate legal support if needed:
Other resource guides
A Know Your Rights: Welcome to Chicago guide for new immigrants navigating the immigration legal system, from the National Immigrant Justice Center:
Safe and Healthy Living: A resource guide for immigrant families, providers, & advocates, from the Latino Policy Forum:
A webpage with resources tailored to LGBTQ+ and HIV positive immigrants from Immigration Equality:
A comprehensive resource guide for immigrants living in Chicago, from the City of Chicago’s Office of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights: