Community Services and Assistance

One of the most important functions of our office is providing assistance to those in need. Assistance can take many forms, but typically, it means providing temporary relief for people, perhaps due to a recent crisis or loss of job, until an individual can become self-supporting or qualify for other forms of relief.

Because West Deerfield Township is close to the community, we can respond to specific needs within our communities and also design creative programs to fill these needs. Many of the programs and services that we provide are "people programs" and really have a direct impact on the residents in our community.

During a crisis or time of need, individuals may feel overwhelmed or intimidated by the idea of getting help. Don't be. Supervisor Julie Morrison is uniquely qualified to help residents navigate the process. In addition to administering the programs offered through the Township office, we can also provide information about county, state and federal programs.

Financial Assistance

The General Assistance program provides aid to residents who meet eligibility guidelines. The recipient works with the township supervisor to examine employment options or training, while receiving financial assistance for food, utility bills, rent, medical services, and transportation. Aid is provided in the form of 3^rd party payments (no cash is given) for such necessities as food, medical services, rent, utilities and transportation. The recipient agrees to actively seek work during this period. This month-to-month assistance program is aimed at finding suitable employment for residents who do not qualify for traditional welfare programs offered by the State. Medical care for emergency or life-threatening situations may be included in this program.

Click here for the General Assistance application.

Click here for the Checklist of Things to Bring for the General Assistance application.

Click here for the Consent to Release Information document.

The Community Emergency Fund provides a one time grant to Deerfield residents in crisis. Residents experiencing financial hardship should contact Jerry Zacher (945-3020) or Julie Morrison (945-0614). It is administered by a steering committee with representatives from the Village of Deerfield, the Police Department, the local Ministerial Association and West Deerfield Township.

The Illinois Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a program that provides credits towards electric and/or gas bills throughout the winter or summer months.

Click here for eligibility guidelines and to learn how to apply for LIHEAP.

Food and Nutrition

The Township Food Pantry operates a year-round food pantry for needy residents. Schools, religious organizations and scout troops contribute the majority of the food. Service organizations and individuals make financial contributions to purchase food store certificates which supplement the pantry's stock.

An application for the State of Illinois TANF/food stamp program (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) can also be completed at our office and forwarded to the appropriate Department of Human Services staff for an expedient response.

Click here for eligibility guidelines and to learn how to apply for TANF or visit www.dhs.state.il.us to apply online.

Student Assistance

Student Assistance is available through a variety of programs including the Microsoft Authorized Refurbishing Program (MAR) which recycles computers and donates them to needy residents. School supplies, back-to-school clothing and winter essentials may also be available for qualified residents. If needed, an application for the the State of Illinois AllKids' health insurance program can also be completed through our office.

Click here for the State of Illinois AllKids' Health Insurance application or visit www.allkidscovered.com to apply online.

The Deerfield Community MAR (Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher) is a new program that reloads donated computers with newly licensed software provided free of charge by Microsoft. The MAR programs helps qualified recipients who otherwise cannot afford a computer system.

Transportation Services

Going Places is a transportation service for Township residents who have mobility challenges that may prevent or restrict their ability to meet their health care needs. After registering, rides may be scheduled up to 30 days in advance.

Click here for more information.

Click here for the Client Registration Form.

Click here for the Physician's Referral document.

The Township office is an official registration center for RTA Users Travel Cards which allow persons age 65 or older to use RTA-funded transportation at no cost. Those who qualify and wish to apply for the card should bring a small (passport type) photo and government issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, state ID or passport, to the township office.

Seniors and disabled residents are eligible for Township Taxi Coupons valued at $4.25 and can be used for transportation to Highland Park Hospital. When used with a Village of Deerfield coupon (which has a value of $5.00), a one-way trip costs very little.

Just for Seniors

The Township provides Wellness Calls to seniors who want someone to "check" on them. These friendly calls are usually scheduled for a time convenient for the senior. Older residents who live alone and/or have health problems enjoy the daily contact that provides this security for them.  

Holiday Wish

The Holiday Wish program matches the special "wishes" and needs of less fortunate residents with the generosity of anonymous individuals, businesses, and philanthropic groups in our community.

Click here if you would like to adopt a needy resident this holiday season.

W.E. Care

W.E. Care is a community program, organized by local schools, that matches needs with donated resources.

Grant Program

The following agencies received funding from West Deerfield Township in 2009. If you would like additional information on any of these resources, please contact the agencies directly.