Recognizing the ongoing housing crisis and the increase in people seeking shelter and transitional housing, the Bray Cares Foundation awarded $500 emergency-housing grants to three local nonprofits.

“We understand that emergencies don’t wait for grant cycles,” said Robert Bray, CEO of Bray and Company and founder of the Bray Cares Foundation. “These grants are designed to provide rapid assistance to those facing immediate housing instability, ensuring no one is left without shelter when they need it most.”

A Special Place received funding to address the surge in housing needs for individuals with severe behavioral health challenges following the closure of West Springs Hospital. Mutual Aid Partners and Solidarity Not Charity were granted funds to support transitional housing for homeless women and assist with deposits for sober-living facilities.

These emergency grants are in addition to the Bray Cares Foundation’s annual grant cycle, which distributes more than $30,000 for housing and shelter-related initiatives. The foundation welcomes local nonprofits with individuals facing urgent housing needs to apply for the remaining emergency funds.

“If your organization is working to address immediate housing needs, we encourage you to reach out,” said Kevin Bray, Bray and Company’s director of development and co-founder of the Bray Cares Foundation.