Supplies & Storage Monthly Backer

Many people are released from Cook County Jail in unsafe weather conditions wearing only a tshirt or one thin layer of clothing, even in freezing cold Chicago temperatures. Our work becomes even more important when the weather turns extreme. We do everything we can to keep folks warm/ cool, hydrated, and get them home safely. 

The food, drinks, and especially water given to those held in Cook County Jail are for sure unappetizing, but can also even be dangerous to consume (reports of lockjaw or serious illness from unsafe drinking water at CCJ are not uncommon). Many people are very hungry and thirsty upon release. We provide drinks to rehydrate folks and tasty portable snacks for their trip home. Their families and loved ones who sometimes wait over 8 hours for them to be processed out can also benefit from a snack or drink while they wait. No one is turned away.