The Never-Ending Line For Benefits Is Back, With Some Immigrants Sleeping Outside To Get A Spot

Immigrants in Chicago are once again lining up outside the Illinois Department of Human Services office in Humboldt Park, waiting for hours to renew social service benefits. Leda, a mother of four from Afghanistan, waited over seven hours and resorted to sleeping outside with her children to secure assistance for food stamps and Medicaid. The line's resurgence follows the reopening of the state's Victims of Trafficking program in July, which provides health insurance and cash support to eligible immigrants. Many prefer in-person consultations, believing they can expedite their applications despite the availability of online options. The situation highlights the ongoing struggles of thousands of migrants who have come to Chicago since 2022, fleeing political instability and economic hardship.

Over 51,000 migrants from South and Central America have arrived, seeking political asylum and basic necessities. Local officials previously closed temporary shelters last year, but the return of long lines indicates that many immigrants continue to face difficulties in establishing stable lives. The need for support remains urgent as families grapple with low-paying jobs and rising living costs.