April 2026 Monthly Memo

 

URGENT: Action Needed Now to Help People Experiencing Homelessness Keep SNAP


New SNAP work requirements took effect in Illinois on February 1, 2026. Adults subject to the ABAWD work rules who do not meet work requirements and do not claim an exemption can only receive SNAP for 3 months and may begin losing benefits as early as May 1, 2026. Read more below.

SHPA News

Government Affairs

We just wrapped up another successful Advocacy Day with over 50 advocates in Springfield, talking to legislators about the need to protect funding for homeless services in Illinois.

Thank you to all of our wonderful Advocates for joining us and for all your hard work!

SOAR


We have two upcoming webinars for the month of April!



Illinois SOAR Provider Support Calls

April 6th


These hour-long calls will be open to all SOAR-trained providers across the state. These sessions offer a dedicated space to ask questions and receive guidance on completing SOAR-assisted SSI/SSDI applications.

REGISTER HERE



Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits Training

April 8th


This 2-hour training is intended for those who are interested in learning the basics of the SSI/SSDI application process. The training will provide an overview of the Social Security Disability programs, SSA’s definition of disability, the application forms, and how to effectively communicate with SSA and DDS. This training is ideal for those who are supporting SSI/SSDI applicants but not completing the full SOAR process.

REGISTER HERE



Want to stay in the know for everything SOAR?

Sign up for SHPA’s SOAR Newsletter!

Do you have any SOAR outcomes from 2025- now?

(This link is only for SOAR caseworkers that are assisting clients with applying for SSI/SSDI)


All SOAR events within the upcoming months can be found on our website in the "Events" page and also in the "SOAR" page.


Supportive Housing Providers Association – Together, We Can Accomplish Anything.

Peer Leadership Development Program

We are currently in Effingham, IL for the third Peer Leadership Development Workshop of the year!

Stay tuned for information about upcoming workshops and events.

Our Peer Leadership Committee meets

every fourth Wednesday of the month at 4pm.

To join our Peer Leadership Development Program, please reach out to

Susan Day at s.day@shpa-il.org

Training & Technical Assistance Center

Upcoming Trainings:


Fair Housing Training - Life Skills

Apr 14, 2026, 1:00 PM CDT



2026 IDHS Grantee TA Office Hours

"Show Your Work"

(If it's Not Documented it Didn't Happen)



April 14th 10:00am-12:30pm

June 9th 10:00am-12:30pm

Aug 4th 10:00am-12:30pm

Sept 29th 10:00am-12:30pm


Standards & Best Practices Committee Meeting - April 27th, at 11:30pm


Mark your calendars and stay engaged! Thank you for your continued commitment to excellence in supportive housing. Let's keep the momentum going!


Warm regards,

Monique Williams

Illinois Coordinator/Training T/A Manager 


Homelessness Education Technical Assistance Center (HETAC)



2026 Home Illinois Summit – “Rising with Resilience”

May 12–13, 2026 | Crowne Plaza, 3000 S Dirksen Pkwy, Springfield, Illinois


We’re excited to announce that registration is now open for the Home Illinois Summit 2026: “Rising with Resilience”.


Join housing leaders, service providers, advocates, policymakers, and partners from across Illinois for two days of connection, learning, and action. This year’s summit will focus on strengthening systems, sharing innovative practices, and building the collective resilience needed to prevent and end homelessness statewide.


What to Expect

  • Inspiring keynote speakers and expert-led sessions
  • Practical strategies grounded in resilience and equity
  • Opportunities to connect with peers and partners across Illinois
  • Tools and insights you can bring back to your community


The registration deadline is April 27, but space is limited on a first-come, first-serve basis.


Registration is now full. Keep an eye out for a potential wait list!


Other Opportunities

PATH is currently accepting nominations for our Board of Directors. If you feel called to this opportunity, I encourage you to consider applying.

Please click below to read more about this opportunity!

 
 

Supportive Housing Providers Association | www.shpa-il.org

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