Here are some key resources available in Illinois for sex worker support, including health services, legal aid, and advocacy: ### Health and Wellness Support - **Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)** Provides resources on sexual health, including STI testing and prevention services. - Website: [www.dph.illinois.gov](https://www.dph.illinois.gov/) - Contact local health departments for specific services. - **AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC)** Offers comprehensive sexual health services, including HIV/STI testing and education, for at-risk populations, including sex workers. - Phone: (773) 848-2000 - Website: [www.aidschicago.org](https://www.aidschicago.org/) - **Health and Wellness Clinics** Planned Parenthood of Illinois provides sexual health services, including testing and counseling. - Phone: (800) 230-PLAN (7526) - Website: [www.plannedparenthood.org](https://www.plannedparenthood.org/) ### Legal Support and Advocacy - **Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation (CAASE)** Offers legal assistance, resources, and advocacy for individuals involved in the sex trade or facing exploitation. - Phone: (312) 212-3066 - Website: [www.caase.org](https://www.caase.org/) - **Illinois Human Trafficking Hotline** Provides support and resources for individuals affected by human trafficking, which may include sex workers seeking help. - Phone: 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733 (BEFREE) - Website: [www.humantraffickinghotline.org](https://www.humantraffickinghotline.org/) - **Lambda Legal** Provides legal support and advocacy for individuals facing discrimination or legal challenges related to their sex work. - Phone: (312) 663-4413 (Chicago Office) - Website: [www.lambdalegal.org](https://www.lambdalegal.org/) ### Supportive Services and Empowerment - **The Network/La Red (Illinois)** A grassroots organization that supports and empowers people who engage in sex work, with a focus on safety and justice. - Website: [www.tnlr.org](https://www.tnlr.org/) - **The National Harm Reduction Coalition** Provides resources and support for harm reduction, which includes programs that support sex workers' health and safety. - Website: [www.nationalharmreduction.org](https://www.nationalharmreduction.org/) ### Shelters and Safe Housing - **Shelters and Housing Programs** Local shelters and housing programs may offer safe accommodations for individuals facing homelessness or exploitation. Contact your local city or county services for referrals. - **Sarah’s Circle (Chicago)** Offers support and emergency housing to women in crisis, including those involved in sex work. - Phone: (773) 549-6111 - Website: [www.sarahs-circle.org](https://www.sarahs-circle.org/) ### Peer Support and Community Organizations - **The Sex Workers Outreach Project (SWOP) – Chicago** Provides peer-led support and advocates for the rights and safety of sex workers in Illinois. - Website: [www.swop-chicago.org](https://www.swop-chicago.org/) - **SWOP-USA** A national network supporting the rights of sex workers and advocating for policy changes. While based nationally, their resources are applicable to Illinois residents. - Website: [www.swopusa.org](https://www.swopusa.org/) ### Resources for Safety and Rights - **Local Police Departments and Non-Emergency Numbers** While interactions with law enforcement can be challenging, many local police departments have community liaisons or specialized units focused on addressing the safety of individuals in vulnerable positions. Contact your local department for details. - **Illinois Attorney General’s Office** Can provide information and resources related to the legal rights of individuals involved in sex work. - Phone: (800) 386-5438 - Website: [www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov](https://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/) --- These resources aim to support the health, safety, and legal rights of individuals involved in sex work. If you need specific assistance or additional information on any of these resources, let me know!