We invest deeply in young people through an approach that is youth-led and research driven where basic needs are met while we also provide the opportunities and relationships young people deserve to heal, to dream, and to explore themselves and the world around them.
Through LYTE’s mobile support program, we go directly to young people wherever they need us to provide support however we can.
two-bedroom apartments
percent rent subsidized
years (or more!) of support
Our six two-bedroom apartments located across Chicago serve both parenting and non-parenting youth (parenting youth have their own apartment and single youth share with one roommate). Young people living in Lytehouse apartments are provided with 100% rent and utility subsidy and holistic support services for at least two years.
Our apartments are currently full, however if you would like to learn more about the program and/or talk with a LYTE team member about getting on the waitlist,
It is a truly wonderful space that will be perfect for our programming but at nearly 100 years old and vacant for some years, it is in need of approximately $1.6 million in renovations before we are able to open our doors. We have raised $1.2M to date and construction is now underway. Help us find donated materials or donate directly below and help us cross the finish line!
Recreation programming will be the center of all services provided at the Lounge. Opportunities for activities like creative arts, music, sports and dance are essential for young people, supporting identity formation, skill-building, leadership, connectedness, self-esteem, and healing all while providing safe activities and places for youth to be.
At the Lounge, we will support young people with gaining employment, increasing their income, and protecting their rights in their workplace. To help secure job opportunities, LYTE staff work to build relationships with employers throughout the city and also hire youth for a range of staff positions within the organization.
LYTE Collective will support young people as they pursue education goals that will increase, over the long-term, their potential for economic stability and personal fulfillment of their dreams. Education programming at the Lounge will include assistance with adult basic education, literacy, high school enrollment, GED completion, and college admission.
While young people are visiting the Lounge, they will have access to meals, showers, laundry and more. The Lounge will always be staffed by clinically-trained professionals available to connect youth to safe housing and provide mental health support, and community providers will regularly be onsite to provide physical health services and legal assistance.