Services

Migrant  Service  Center

The IMC Migrant Service Center closed in 2006 due to lack of resources. During its many years of operation it offered immediate emergency assistance for food, shelter and transportation to thousands of migrants in transit near the southernmost tip of Illinois every year.(See map.)  The Center is located in the IMC Delta Region on Rural Route 1. The Illinois Department of Transporation has erected signs in both directions on Interstate 57 for the exit to the IMC Migrant Service Center for in transit migrants.  Many migrants who stopped at the Center informed the IMC staff that their traveling reserves were low or depleted.  Even when they started with adequate money for the journey in search of farmwork, circumstances, such as auto breakdowns, quickly reduced their cash resources. Most were traveling by car or truck in the family's own vehicle (single  family or two families car pooling), or in  groups with other migrating families (car caravans).  Because the price of vehicle fuel is so high, the request for fuel assistance is almost universal among migrants in transit. Common transportation problems are flat tires and minor transmission repairs. Since migrants depend so heavily on their vehicles for their livelihood, these problems can threaten cash resources and earning prospects.  Many request emergency food assistance in order to have it last until they reach their destination or find work; they often arrive at the Center tired and hungry.  Those in transit may need shelter assistance for one or two nights after a long drive to get to Illinois especially when there is only one driver who requires rest and sleep.  Many use the Center's shower facilities and  restrooms after traveling long hours on the road.      Other emergency situations may include the need for hygiene items (diapers, soap, sanitary items) and emergency transportation (e.g. bus fare) when car repair is not possible or when traveling in groups doesn't work out.  IMC photo archives family services   outreach & assessment case management employment assistance esl youth/children Services

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Illinois Migrant Council (IMC)
info@illinoismigrant.org
Last revised: 2006