The Family/Transitional Housing Program has been in operation since 1988. Phase I housing provides program services including life skills training along with “rent and utilities paid” housing units for homeless families, many of whom are single parents. Phase II continues with the addition of low rental payments while completing educational training, securing better employment and saving for first and last months’ rent or a down payment on a home. Phase II supplies families with additional time in order to ensure a stable and long lasting transition to self-sufficiency.

COOL Family/Transitional Housing currently provides eight housing units for struggling homeless families to begin life anew.  Phase II of the program is designed for guests who can pay partial rent and utilities, but need more time to upgrade job skills or access further resources for independent living. The units are located in Waukegan and Zion, Illinois. Housing guests are selected from applications submitted to COOL on the basis of need, appropriateness for the program and availability of housing.

Homeless families accepted in the program should be employed full time, have a successful history of sobriety, have a commitment to beginning a new life including establishing a savings  account, and a willingness to comply with program rules and guidelines.

Guests are referred to COOL by state and local government agencies, private programs, churches, and individuals. Anyone wishing to apply for COOL Family/Transitional Housing can call (847) 662-1340 for an application form or download it here.

Since the Family Housing Program was initiated, over 100 families have graduated; Fifteen saved enough money while in the program to become first time home-buyers and many were single women with children. 85% of our guests have maintained independent living long after leaving the COOL program.

COOL receives funding from government grants, corporate and private foundations, and the United Way of Lake County. COOL also receives financial contributions from member churches and generous individuals.