NEWSLETTER
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Special Announcement
The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) is pleased to announce that households who experienced an extended power outage of two (2) consecutive days or more as a result of severe storms this summer may be eligible for one-time food assistance to help cover the cost of lost perishable foods. Using Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) funding, storm-impacted eligible households may receive a one-time $150 Visa grocery gift card.
Eligibility Requirements
- City of Chicago residency
- Household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) Guidelines, required by CSBG and determined by the Department of Health and Human Services (see table below).
- Documentation from ComEd verifying a power outage of two (2) consecutive days or more. See attached FAQ for details on confirming a power outage.
2026 Poverty Income Guidelines
|
Family Size |
200% of Poverty Annual Income ($) |
200% of Poverty 30 Day Income ($) |
|
1 |
31,920 |
2,660 |
|
2 |
43,280 |
3,607 |
|
3 |
54,640 |
4,553 |
|
4 |
66,000 |
5,500 |
|
5 |
77,360 |
6,447 |
|
6 |
88,720 |
7,393 |
|
7 |
100,080 |
8,340 |
|
8 |
111,440 |
9,287 |
*For family units with more than 8 members: add $11,360 for each additional member to arrive at the annual income for 200% poverty.
I would like to encourage Alders to advise eligible residents to visit one of the six DFSS Community Service Centers (CSCs) to apply. For locations and contact information, residents should visit chi.gov/CSC or call us at 312-743-0300.
Because funds are limited, eligible residents should contact their nearest CSC in advance to confirm availability and to schedule an appointment. Appointments to apply begin tomorrow, August 20, 2026.