Strengthening families to care for children and caring for children when families cannot.

Solutions for families in crisis, help for the hurting and a home for abused children; LYDIA is going where the need is greatest. For more than 95 years, we have been providing hope and support to children and families in need. Each year LYDIA serves thousands of children and families in and around Chicago by helping them overcome overwhelming obstacles such as trauma from abuse and neglect. Please join us and together we’ll make a difference in the lives of children and families!

Our programs include: a residential treatment center (home for abused and neglected children), foster care, Safe Families for Children, Families First, counseling centers, Urban Academy (non-traditional high schools in Chicago and Rockford), Learn & Care (preschool) and a graduate training program.

Events WedWednesdayFebFebruary1st2012 2012 LYDIA Tag Days 04/13/2012 This year we are partnering with the ‘Children’s Benefit League of Chicago and Suburbs’ to offer a special opportunity to raise awareness and funds for LYDIA. Through Tag Days you can volunteer to... More TueTuesdayNovNovember29th2011 Team LYDIA 09/09/2012 Join Team LYDIA and Run for Chicago's Kids! When you join Team LYDIA, you can reach your personal fitness goals while standing up for children of Chicago who need your support through your pledges... More More Events...

News ThuThursdayJanJanuary19th2012 a song for Chance General Join “TheChanceWave” …… splash it across America http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msTlOea1umw who is Chance? … a homeless baby boy that came into my life after his mom fell on hard times. Chance's mom... More TueTuesdayJanJanuary17th2012 LYDIA Urban Academy: "They Helped Me Here" General Ricky came to LYDIA Urban Academy from a local public high school about three years ago. His tattooed arms and neck told a story of past violence and gang affiliations. He was 16 years old and had... More More News...