Chicago faces budget crisis threatening social services and education in July

In July 2023, Chicago faced a significant financial challenge with a projected budget gap of $982.4 million, threatening essential funding for social services and education. This fiscal crisis highlighted the need for community-driven solutions, prompting local organizations to step in. The ChiCommons Cooperative, a worker-owned collective, developed an online map featuring over 800 solidarity entities and cooperatives in the Chicago area, aimed at fostering a solidarity economy. This initiative is part of a broader movement to address the needs of underserved communities, particularly in areas where access to technology and resources is limited. The map serves as a vital resource for mutual aid groups, housing collectives, and food cooperatives, promoting collaboration and support among local residents. The efforts of ChiCommons and similar organizations reflect a growing recognition of the importance of hyperlocal networks in responding to community needs, especially during times of economic hardship.