Shelter Youth and Family Services is a nonpartisan charitable organization and does not take a position
in support of or against any candidate for public office.

Illinois State Senate Race Ahead for Carina

Shelter's Chief Executive Officer, Carina H. Santa Maria, has declared her candidacy for the Illinois State Senate in the 2026 election. Carina has spent her career championing the needs of children, working parents, immigrants, and individuals facing systemic barriers. Of her motivation to run for office, she says, “This decision comes from a place of deep commitment and service. Throughout my career, I’ve stepped up where I’m needed most—whether that’s leading a nonprofit or holding public office. As a State Senator, I hope to bring the same compassion, creativity, and accountability to Springfield that I’ve brought to my work at Shelter.”

While she prepares for her campaign, Carina will continue to serve as CEO of Shelter Youth & Family Services through at least the next year. A thoughtful leadership transition plan is already in development to ensure Shelter remains strong and stable through this next chapter.

On July 17, SI Container Builds in Buffalo Grove offered a first look at the progress of Shelter's future home for survivors of human trafficking. Attendees saw how simple shipping containers will be transformed into nurturing spaces that will foster healing, dignity, and hope for young women who are working to rebuild their lives.

Building with shipping containers has many advantages, including sustainability, durability, speed, affordability, and quality. Shelter's 12-bedroom home in Palatine will be Illinois' first DCFS-licensed home of its kind and will offer 24-hour therapeutic support for young women ages 12-18. The home is expected to open this November.

Thank you to our financing partners: Illinois Department of Children & Family Services, The Foglia Family Foundation, The Canning Foundation, The Fitzgerald Family Foundation, Endeavor Health Community Investment Fund, and
the Chicago Bears.

Four Families Graduate from
Healthy Families Five-Year Program

On August 7, Shelter’s Healthy Families program marked a joyful Summer Celebration & Graduation at Kids Empire in Palatine. Staff honored four children, along with their parents, who completed the program and are heading to kindergarten this fall.

For five years, these families received free, one-on-one home visits from Shelter staff who provided compassionate guidance, parenting resources, and practical tools to strengthen family bonds. Healthy Families partners with young parents facing significant challenges, helping them build the skills and confidence to be the best parents they can be. Do you know a young parent who could benefit from extra support?
Click here to learn more.

Easing the Transition to School

As summer winds down, some children feel excited for school, while others may feel anxious about change. By validating your child’s emotions and offering reassurance, you can help them start the year with confidence.
Here are six tips to help your child cope with school anxiety.

➡️Visit the school and playground before summer ends.

➡️Show your child their teacher’s photo from the website or a yearbook to put a name with a face.

➡️Plan for the first day, prepare clothes, lunch or snack, and review the daily schedule, including getting to/from school.

➡️Reinstate regular bedtimes and meal times. 

➡️Provide downtime to talk about the day.

➡️Normalize feelings of worry and seek help if needed.

Every experience, uplifting or challenging, helps children build the skills, resilience, and confidence they need to thrive as capable, successful adults. 

Putting Dignity and Choice Front and Center

We’re so grateful for the many generous item donations we’ve received over the years, from diapers and wipes to hats and hygiene items. The support of so many has truly made a difference! As the needs of our youth and families continue to evolve, so must we.

What's Changing? We will no longer be able to accept donations of items, including clothing, hygiene products, art supplies, toys, furniture, and more on a regular basis. From time to time, we may reach out to request your help with items for silent auctions, specific drives, or special events.

What Helps Most? Monetary contributions or the donation of gift cards allow Shelter to provide exactly what’s needed, when it is needed. Your gift empowers our youth and families to choose items that fit their needs, style, and identity, putting dignity and choice
front and center.

Your support matters! Donate here or send gift cards to:
1616 N. Arlington Heights Rd., Arlington Heights, IL  60004.

Good Neighbors Network Helps Our 
Kids Gear Up for School