Chicago Clears Largest Homeless Encampment, Relocates Residents to Housing and Shelters

The city dismantled Humboldt Park's 90-tent encampment, prioritizing permanent housing placements for affected individuals.

Chicago officials removed the city's largest homeless encampment in Humboldt Park, which had grown to about 90 tents, citing safety and health concerns from nearby residents.
The initiative, led by Ald. Jessie Fuentes and Chief Homelessness Officer Sendy Soto, marked a shift in approach by focusing on permanent housing solutions rather than temporary removals.
Thirty-nine residents were placed in apartments, with plans to house 24 more; two dozen others were offered shelter beds, and one couple was provided a hotel room.
Critics, including the Chicago Coalition to End Homelessness, argue the city’s actions prioritize the visibility of homelessness over addressing its systemic causes.
Some residents, including a Venezuelan family, faced challenges during the transition, such as losing their tent before final shelter arrangements were secured.