The state on Monday opened its first center designed to connect Asian American families with government resources.
“Our family advocacy center will serve as a one-stop shop for information, connection and support with programs to strengthen families and help them maintain stability in this country,” said Hong Liu, executive director of the Midwest Asian Health Association, which will operate the center at 218 W. 26th St. in Armour Square.
The nonprofit “is a trusted community organization for providing resources with respect, care and support,” Liu said.
The center will offer case management services, parenting support groups, health insurance enrollment, a food pantry, immunizations and monthly health screenings.
The center will also support family reunifications and stabilize foster placements. Services will be available in English, Cantonese, Mandarin and Spanish.
It will serve Chicago’s Asian American community with funding from the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Liu said.
“Among all populations, Asian immigrant families are the least likely to seek help from mainstream resources,” Liu said during the center’s opening event on Monday, pointing to language and cultural barriers.
The Midwest Asian Health Association currently provides health education and preventive health care services, such as screenings, immunizations, annual checkups, lab testing and doctor referrals.
The center will offer case management services, parenting support groups, health insurance enrollment, a food pantry, immunizations and monthly…
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