DuPage County residents who rely on housing assistance and energy programs stand to benefit from nearly $1.3 million in contracts the Human Services Committee approved at its Tuesday, Aug. 4 meeting, plus two federal grant proposals worth a combined $302,830 for homeless services.

The largest item: a contract with A Lugan Contractors, LLC, not to exceed $1 million for architectural and mechanical services tied to multi-family weatherization across the county. The contract runs through Nov. 15, 2027, and is the first of three possible one-year renewals.

A separate $104,000 agreement with the Community and Economic Development of Cook County (CEDA) will fund technical services specifically for the College Park Apartments weatherization project in West Chicago, through the Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program. Crowley Engineering, LLC, received a $25,000 contract for engineering services on multi-family weatherization work.

The committee also accepted a $169,000 agreement with the DuPage Housing Authority to continue the Family Self-Sufficiency Program, a five-year initiative that helps Housing Choice Voucher holders develop career plans and build savings.

Three graduates reach self-sufficiency

Community Services Director Mary Keating told the committee that three program participants recently graduated and achieved full financial self-sufficiency. Two retrieved escrow funds from the Housing Authority. Among the three, one earned a bachelor's degree, one earned a master's degree and one pursued a career in the trades. One graduate also received the Family of Distinction honor at the state level.

The Family Self-Sufficiency Program requires participants to hold a Housing Choice Voucher or have at least one child under 18, and to reside in DuPage County.

Homeless services grants pending

The committee approved submission of two HUD Continuum of Care grant proposals: $212,094 for one program and $90,736 for coordinated entry services. The national application deadline is Aug. 26, with award announcements expected in December and project starts in January 2027.

Committee Chair Greg Schwarze called the meeting to order at 9:30 a.m. All items now move to the Finance Committee before reaching the full DuPage County Board for final approval.

The committee's next meeting is scheduled for Aug. 19 at 9:30 a.m. Residents can track agendas and attend through the county's committee page.