Since founded in 1981, San Jose Obrero Mission (SJOM) has established itself as a homeless services provider of the utmost caliber. SJOM serves homeless men, women, and children in Chicago's Pilsen and Little Village communities and those at risk of homelessness in seven surrounding communities. Our commitment to growth and improvement has allowed us to incorporate new services that reach more populations in need using best practice models. Despite the various transitions it undergoes, the core belief that every individual has a right to shelter and opportunities to improve his or her life consistently drives every aspect and modification of the agency. Founder David Staszak began SJOM as an emergency shelter that provided overnight stays and a hot meal for 40 homeless men. In 2003, we revised our program model, strengthening our ability to aid participants with finding and securing stable, independent housing. In compliance with the Chicago Continuum of Care’s Strategic Plan, "Getting Housed, Staying Housed," SJOM officially became an interim housing program for men. In January 2010, as requested by the City, SJOM was pleased to undertake an extensive expansion to its programs. Today, we not only provide interim housing to 40 homeless men but we also operate an interim house that can serve up to 80 women and children.