One Hope United Opened New Hope Center Kankakee

One Hope United Opened New Hope Center Kankakee

Kankakee, Ill. — One Hope United opened its newest location, Hope Center Kankakee, on Wednesday, July 30, with a primary focus on delivering Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) services—specialized, trauma-informed support to help stabilize youth in foster care who are at risk of placement disruption.

IPS services provide short-term, in-home interventions at no cost to eligible families, helping children and caregivers build stability, strengthen relationships, and avoid more restrictive care environments.

“The City of Kankakee is honored to welcome Hope Center Kankakee as a valuable addition to our community’s network of support services,” stated Mayor Chris W. Curtis. “The specialized resources and trauma-informed care provided by One Hope United will address critical needs among our youth and families. We commend their dedication to strengthening placement stability, promoting healing, and enhancing long-term outcomes for children in foster care. This initiative reflects the shared commitment to improving quality of life and fostering resilience within the City of Kankakee.”

Services include:

Crisis intervention and placement stabilization

Family and individual counseling

Court advocacy and school support

Community linkages, enrichment, and mentoring

Foster parent coaching and support

“We’re incredibly grateful for Mayor Curtis’s support and shared commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Kankakee,” said Damon Cates, President & CEO of One Hope United. “His leadership reinforces the importance of community connection as we work to provide youth and families with the care, resources, and stability they deserve.”

Addressing Poverty and Insecurity in Kankakee

In 2023, 17.5% of children in Kankakee County were living in poverty, according to Data USA. In addition to IPS services, Hope Center Kankakee will host quarterly food drives, collaborate with local food pantries, and explore expanded outreach such as clothing and backpack drives. These efforts reflect the center’s broader commitment to supporting vulnerable families and children in the area.

“Kankakee families are facing challenges—from unstable foster care placements to food insecurity,” said Director of Programs Jacqueline Martinez. “Hope Center Kankakee is here to meet those needs with compassion, collaboration, and expertise.”

Additional community programs offered:

Trauma-Informed Parenting Workshop: Virtual sessions for foster parents to better understand trauma, manage challenging behaviors, and support youth with mental health needs. Contact: Candyce Jarmon cjarmon@onehopeunited.org.

Foster Parenting Support Group: An educational space for foster parents to ask questions, connect, and support one another. Contact: Kathleen Slaughter kslaughter1@onehopeunited.org.

Under the Umbrella – LGBTQIA+ Youth Group: A safe, affirming space for LGBTQIA+ youth in care and in the community. Contact: Melissa Jensen mjensen@onehopeunited.org.

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