West Side Chicago residents still await flood recovery help over a year later

In July 2023, a historic storm inundated parts of Chicago, particularly affecting the West Side, where residents experienced severe flooding. Over a year later, many residents, including seniors Minnie Hill and Queen Jackson, report that they have not received the promised financial assistance for recovery. Despite attending a news conference where Mayor Brandon Johnson announced an additional $5 million in flood relief, residents claim they have faced numerous obstacles in accessing these funds. Mayor Johnson stated that there was no application process for the funding, yet residents like Hill and Jackson have had to prove home ownership and reapply for assistance, only to receive letters denying their requests. The lack of support has left them frustrated and feeling abandoned, especially after enduring significant damage to their homes, including mold and structural issues. Both women have lived in their neighborhoods for decades and feel overlooked compared to other areas of the city that have received aid. They express a sense of injustice, believing that their long-standing residency should warrant assistance. The situation has led to a growing sense of despair among the community, as many residents are left without answers or help. Despite the challenges, Hill and Jackson remain determined to seek the help they need, refusing to give up in the face of adversity. Their story highlights the ongoing struggles of West Side residents as they continue to wait for the support they were promised over a year ago.