Chicago Overhauls Shelter System Amid Migrant Influx Challenges

The city plans to merge migrant and homeless shelters into a unified system by 2025, addressing budget constraints and declining migrant arrivals.

Chicago's new 'One System Initiative' will integrate migrant and traditional homeless shelters, aiming for a more equitable service provision.
The current migrant-only shelters and the 'landing zone' will be phased out by the end of 2024, with the latter's hours already reduced.
Mayor Brandon Johnson cites financial strain and a decrease in migrant arrivals as reasons for the transition to a unified shelter system.
The city plans to increase its shelter capacity to 6,800 beds, with additional funding from state resources, but concerns remain over potential bed shortages.
Chicago has faced significant financial challenges, with nearly $200 million spent on the migrant crisis and a projected budget shortfall of $982 million for 2025.