Since 1983, HOW has been a leader in permanent solutions to homelessness. Through prevention strategies, expanded affordable supportive housing, and individualized support services, we’ve helped thousands across Chicago reclaim their lives. In 2025 alone, HOW served 1,482 individuals across 715 households.

Housing is a human right. That's the belief at the heart of everything we do at HOW. As federal funding grows increasingly uncertain, it's our community — people like you — who make it possible to keep our neighbors housed.  

That's where the 2026 HOW 5K comes in. For years, this event has rallied people from across the city all in service of one goal: keeping our neighbors housed. This year, that support matters more than ever. Lace up, show up, and stand with your community. Your neighbors are counting on you.

While we appreciate all donations, no matter what platform they're made through, we encourage you to donate through HOW's own online form to avoid higher fees.

Donations Help Provide: 

• Permanent Housing: Individuals and families move from homelessness into safe, stable housing they can call home.
• Case Management: One-on-one support that helps clients overcome barriers and build long-term stability.
• Employment Services: Job coaching, resume assistance, and career development that help clients increase their income and regain independence.
• Health Care Support: Connects clients with health insurance, primary care, and ongoing health services so they can stay healthy and remain housed.
• Family & Youth Services: Helps children and parents access tutoring, youth programs, school support, and resources the whole family needs.
• Support Against Rising Housing Costs: Helps keep people housed as rents and costs (like security deposits) keep climbing year after year.

Thank you for supporting HOW!