Despite threats at the federal level to cut essential anti-poverty programs, our mission to advance economic and racial justice remains steadfast. In our 2025 legislative plan for Illinois, we continue to build on decades of success in Springfield. Read our full list of proposed bills that help create a state where everyone can thrive.

• Reentry
• Economic Justice
• Income Support
• Fair Workplaces
• Health Justice

The first 10 days of the Trump administration have seen a swift and unprecedented assault on our government, our democracy, and our most vulnerable people. We asked a few of our advocates to share their thoughts on the latest developments and the effect they're having on marginalized communities.

This is a critical moment in the fight for a more equitable future, with opportunity for all. We spoke with Vice President of Development Erin Dowland Kabwe about what inspires her to do the work and how donors fuel our mission.

The presidential elections are less than a week away. The results could affect everything from reproductive rights and the state of democracy to the programs and policies that support people experiencing poverty. The Shriver Center on Poverty Law spoke with a number of our advocates about how — or whether — the outcome of the 2024 elections will shape their work.

As difficult as that feels, ending poverty is ultimately a policy choice. We already know that measures like the child tax credit and progressive taxation can lift all boats. As we head toward Election Day, we must remember that when we center poverty in our politics, we all win.

According to the Consumer Protection Financial Bureau, $88 billion in unpaid medical bills are in the hands of debt collectors. That’s more than any other type of personal debt. One unexpected procedure or sudden loss of employment can have devastating financial consequences for families and individuals in need of health care.

• Health Equity