Chambana Sun

On May 8, 2024, the Champaign County Community Coalition convened for its monthly meeting. This followed last month's gathering where local students voiced their difficulties in finding community activities to engage in. In response, a guide was developed based on student suggestions to aid in planning future activities.

The Housing Authority of Champaign County offered a presentation about their organization, detailing the services they provide, the populations they serve, and the SHIFT program designed to support successful exits from voucher assistance. The University of Illinois Chancellor’s Compact provided an overview of their focus areas and a timeline of activities since 2023. They also shared updates on upcoming programming and grant opportunities.

Two poignant presentations marked this month's meeting. “A Cry for You,” a non-profit organization that provides support for grieving parents and families who have lost loved ones to gun violence, shared information about their program. They also announced an opportunity to support their Sons in Heaven Gala on Tuesday, October 5th from 5 – 9 PM at the IHotel.

Additionally, the Sheehan Family presented an initiative born out of the tragic loss of their son in a house fire. In collaboration with the Champaign Fire Department, they will host the Christian Sheehan Smoke Alarm Blitz on Saturday, May 18th from 8 AM – 12 PM at the Douglass Community Center. This annual event has already supplied over 1000 smoke alarms to families.

The meeting concluded with brief updates regarding programming and job opportunities from Stop the Violence, Black Mental Health and Wellness Part 2 – The Work Continues, Don Moyers Boys and Girls Club – Champaign County Mental Health Board Summer Initiatives, and Champaign County Probation and Court Services.