Get Additional Assistance
Through our CARES Programs, Loaves & Fishes provides low-income families support to meet immediate needs and educational programs/services to achieve long-term self-sufficiency.
We accomplish this through collaboration with community partners and health professionals, building a network of support for underserved members in our community.
Car Program
Cars donated by the community are repaired and given to families who lack reliable transportation to get to work. Eligible individuals must have a referral, attend Financial Fitness classes and complete a detailed application and documentation process.
After completing requirements, a Certification of Completion will be issued. Ownership of the donated vehicle will occur after all requirements have been met.
For more information, please call (630) 355-3663 and select Option 4 or email CARESPrograms@loaves-fishes.org
Computer Training
Seven-session courses in computer and software skills are offered by the People’s Resource Center at Loaves & Fishes. Class registration is required.
For more information, please call (630) 355-3663
Emergency Assistance
Emergency financial assistance for basic needs such as rent and utilities is available to residents of Naperville, Naperville Township or members of a Naperville congregation. Eligible individuals must go through an application and documentation process. Clients may be required to complete the budget and credit workshop offered through H.O.M.E. DuPage before receiving financial assistance.
Read our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about this and other programs.
For more information, please call (630) 355-3663 and select Option 4 or email CARESPrograms@loaves-fishes.org
Emotional Support
A professional counselor is available to provide care and support for individuals experiencing emotional challenges. Sessions are strictly confidential and are provided through SamaraCare Counseling and Fox Valley Institute. Appointments are required.
For more information, please call (630) 355-3663
Financial Fitness
Weekly workshops in either developing a personal budget or understanding credit reports are offered by H.O.M.E. DuPage on Wednesday evenings at Loaves & Fishes. Once you attend these two workshops, you are eligible for one-on-one financial coaching and other H.O.M.E. DuPage financial workshops. This program is a requirement of the Loaves & Fishes Car Program and class registration is required.
Health Screenings
Midwestern University College of Pharmacy provides free health screenings during food market hours on the 2nd Saturday and 4th Thursday in the evening.
For more information, please call (630) 355-3663
Job Search Assistance
Volunteers provide coaching sessions to improve your resume and interview skills. Appointments are required.
For more information, please call (630) 355-3663
Legal Support
Legal consultations with DuPage Legal Aid are available for a variety of legal issues on the third Friday of the month. A screening questionnaire must be completed before an appointment is scheduled.
For more information, please call (630) 355-3663
Moving Up
Unleash your potential with Moving Up!
Moving Up is a 16-session course which is offered once a year and is designed to help individuals discover what is holding them back from living a more self-sufficient life. Program graduates will develop goals to help them create their own bright future stories. Interested individuals must complete an application and interview process.
The goal is to build resources for your financial future based on your plan for life. No one teaches you what you need to learn-you’ll discover whats best for you by participating in informal problem-solving discussions in a kitchen-table small group format.
Moving Up gives you the opportunity to:
- Build on your strengths
- Investigate community resources
- Create a plan for the life you want including SMART goals and action steps
- Gain new friends, a greater understanding of yourself and others and learn new skills to improve your life situation
- Work with a mentor to make a positive difference in your life
Even in hard times you can move ahead, learn new skills and change your life for the better.
Read what past participants have said about Moving Up:
“I was living my life without any tools. After Moving Up, I have some. I can never go back to living that way again.”
“It was hard to define my goals when I was living day to day, paycheck to paycheck. My mentor helped me with small steps toward my goals. I needed someone to listen about what’s going on in my life and encourage me.”
Contact Moving Up at Loaves and Fishes Community Services
630.355.3663 Ext. 4
movingup@loaves-fishes.org
Public Benefit Assistance
A certified volunteer will help you determine eligibility and assist in completing an application for these public benefits: SNAP (LINK card), LIHEAP, Medicaid, Marketplace health care coverage and Access DuPage. Appointments are required.
Click here for Get Covered DuPage 2019 Health Insurance Coverage information.
For more information, please call (630) 355-3663
Resource Meetings
Meet with a resource specialist to discuss family needs and learn about agency and community resources.
For more information, please call (630) 355-3663
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
Need Help with your Tax Return? Loaves & Fishes is an IRS-approved VITA site, offering FREE help on state & federal tax returns for low-income households. (Annual income of $60,000 or less)
Volunteers are trained to help income-eligible individuals prepare and file their tax returns at no cost to them. The program is open from the end of January through the first week of April.
Appointments are required.
Starting January 26: Monday & Wednesday 4-8pm/Saturday 1-5pm/Sunday 9am-1pm
Please call the front desk at 630-355-3663 for more information.
Bring your documents:
A copy of 2018 return (if available)
- Photo ID and Social Security cards
- W-2, 1098 or 1099 forms
- Information on any other income sources
- Information on your tax credits and deductions
- Blank check for refund direct deposit
- Form 1095-A for ACA insurance
For more information, please call (630) 355-3663