In a significant step toward addressing homelessness in Evanston, Connections for the Homeless has initiated a $6.7 million renovation of Hilda’s Place, a shelter that has been a cornerstone of the community since 1984. The project, which broke ground on a recent Wednesday, aims to restore year-round overnight shelter services that were paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The renovation is not just about rebuilding a physical space; it’s about revitalizing a community’s commitment to providing dignity, safety, and hope to those experiencing homelessness. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including city officials, faith leaders, and community members, all united by a shared vision of a more compassionate Evanston.
The Vision Behind the Renovation
The groundbreaking ceremony was a moment of unity and determination. Betty Bogg CEO of Connections for the Homeless, emphasized the community’s collective responsibility in addressing homelessness. “In this community, we do not look away from homelessness. We come together; we roll up our sleeves and build a way forward,” she stated.
Mayor Daniel Biss echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of collaboration. “The solution to homelessness is a broad, robust partnership,” he said. “We are here this afternoon with some folks who have brought help into Evanston to make sure that we are able to do this work collaboratively.”
The renovation plans are ambitious and comprehensive. The lower level of Lake Street Church, where Hilda’s Place has been housed for over four decades, will be transformed to include 30 shelter beds11 new showers10 bathrooms and an elevator to ensure accessibility for all. These improvements are not just practical; they are a testament to the community’s commitment to providing a safe and dignified space for those in need.
A Legacy of Compassion
The story of Hilda’s Place is deeply intertwined with the history of Lake Street Church. In 1984, the church, then known as First Baptist Church of Evanston, opened its doors to provide shelter for people experiencing homelessness. This act of compassion was the seed from which Connections for the Homeless grew. Over the years, the organization has expanded its services to include shelter, drop-in services, eviction prevention, and housing advocacy.
Dan Cox Board Chair of Connections, described the church’s decision to open its doors as a “subversive act of compassion.” This act has had a lasting impact, not just on the individuals who have found shelter and support at Hilda’s Place, but on the entire community. The renovation is a continuation of this legacy, ensuring that the shelter remains a beacon of hope for years to come.
The Impact of the Renovation
The renovation is more than a construction project; it’s a statement of the community’s values. As Nia Tavoularis Chief of Development at Connections, noted, “These are practical things, right? But they are also powerful: dignity, safety, rest and the chance to begin again.” The renovation will not only provide much-needed facilities but also send a clear message that the community stands with those experiencing homelessness.
The project is also part of a broader movement known as Yes in God’s Backyard (YIGBY) which advocates for making it easier for religious institutions to develop affordable housing on land they own. This movement is a response to the common phrase “Not in My Backyard,” which often describes opposition to development in one’s own community. The YIGBY movement seeks to turn this sentiment on its head, advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to housing.
Rev. Michael Woolf senior minister at Lake Street Church, emphasized the importance of this movement. “We need laws that make it easier, not harder, for houses of worship to put their buildings and land to work for their neighbors,” he said. “As much as some may say, ‘Not in my backyard,’ we know that God says, ‘Yes, right here in this front yard.’”
The renovation of Hilda’s Place is expected to be completed by next spring. In the meantime, services have been relocated to the first and second floors of Lake Street Church, ensuring that those in need continue to receive support and assistance. The project is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the enduring commitment to addressing homelessness in Evanston.
