A prevention agency based in Tinley Park, Illinois, Together We Cope provides resources to families in temporary crisis, enabling them to stay in their homes. Since 1982, Together We Cope has been bridging the gap for south suburban residents in 27 communities by supplying food, shelter, clothing and referrals, empowering them to return to self-sufficiency. With over 200 volunteers, generous community donations of food, clothing and household goods, and groceries purchased from the Greater Chicago Food Depository, TWC serves more than 1,500 families each month. Our efforts are aimed at preventing homelessness for hard-working families and individuals who experience an unexpected temporary loss of income. We are able to provide basic necessities like food, shampoo, diapers and clothing and help with prescriptions, past due rent, mortgage, utility payments, school supplies and Christmas presents for children. By providing help in these areas, it allows families to use their limited money on housing, utilities, and medical needs while they work hard to get back on their feet again.