Shared Offering

August 2025 Shared Offering

Our Shared Offering recipient for the month of August is C-U at Home

Homelessness and Social Justice in Champaign–Urbana
Homelessness in Champaign and Urbana reflects broader structural injustices—lack of affordable housing, mental health and addiction challenges, and systemic poverty. Across Illinois, growing housing costs and declining shelter capacity have led to a statewide surge in homelessness. In response, advocates are pressing for increased investment—up to $100 million at the state level—to expand emergency and transitional shelter beds and prevention services.

C‑U at Home: A Mission for Dignity & Empowerment
Founded in 2011 by Melany Jackson, C‑U at Home began with a small transitional house and has since grown into a community-based nonprofit grounded in faith, hospitality, and social justice.

Pathways to Progress: A Holistic Program
At the heart of our work is the “Pathways to Progress” program: a 12–18 month, mid‑barrier shelter track combining residential housing with intensive case management, life‑skills coaching, and connection to community services.

Shelter Programs
Men’s Shelter in Urbana (up to 8 clients, year‑round, in a house since 2023)
Austin’s Place for women, serving up to 8 residents in Champaign
Advanced Shelters—independent houses for those transitioning toward housing stability
Case Management & Life Skills Coaching
Paired with a case manager to set goals, address barriers, and build healthy routines
C‑U at Work (Prosperity Gardens)
Paid employment and purpose in community gardens and projects
Community Education & Advocacy
Educates and mobilizes the public to understand and address root causes of homelessness

Why This Matters
Restoring Dignity: Treats clients with agency and respect, supporting their growth and healing.

Breaking Cycles: Tackles root challenges to support sustained independence.
Community and Justice: Connects homelessness to broader equity and responsibility efforts.

Real Impacts & Community Context
Over the years, Pathways to Progress has helped dozens move from the streets or vehicles into personal housing, with supportive structures along the way. In 2023, the men’s shelter moved to a dedicated home in Urbana, and plans for an apartment-style mid-barrier shelter
with space for 26 more clients were announced in 2024.

In Summary
C‑U at Home stands as a local beacon for social justice through its, relational, and transformative approach to homelessness. They offer not just shelter, but meaningful pathways to stability, employment, community, and dignity. Their holistic programming addresses immediate needs while seeking broader systemic change—inviting neighbors in Champaign–Urbana to engage, advocate, and partner in uplifting the most vulnerable among us.

When you give to or support C‑U at Home, you are making a direct and lasting impact in the lives of those experiencing homelessness. Your generosity helps provide shelter, hope, and a path forward for individuals working hard to rebuild their lives. Every gift—of time, talent, or resources—brings someone one step closer to stability and dignity.