Family Rescue Information

For over 30 years Family Rescue has been dedicated to eliminating domestic violence in the Chicago community by providing comprehensive support services and shelter to victims of domestic violence, particularly abused women and their children; engaging in advocacy to promote future system change; and encouraging prevention through community education. Family Rescue operates for core programs: Ridgeland Apartments and Children's Program (RAP), Rosenthal Family Lodge (RFL), Community Outreach (COR), and Legal Advocacy (LAP). RFL is an emergency shelter for abused women and their children. It houses our 24-hour bilingual crisis line. RFL is the only domestic violence shelter located on Chicago's south side. Programming assists families in breaking the cycle of homelessness due to violence by providing trauma sensitive counseling and case management, and help in the transition to permanent housing. RAP is a subsidized supportive housing program with an on-site after school program. This program is a national model which operates under the theory that women with children who are traumatized by domestic violence and are then forced into homelessness have very specific needs and face unique barriers in developing and maintaining a sustainable lifestyle. LAP supports a victim's attempt to end a violent relationship by gaining access to the criminal justice system and act on behalf of victims and their children, ensuring their safety and rights are protected under the Illinois Domestic Violence Act. Staff members provide court accompaniment, advocacy with law enforcement and judicial personnel, assistance in obtaining orders of protection and crisis counseling. COR provides portable domestic violence services that go to where victims gather in the community in addition to providing on-site services. Services are provided in both English and Spanish. Group counseling is offered at several locations in the city and suburbs.