StreetWise is an award-winning nonprofit operating at the intersection of journalism, economic opportunity, and social justice. Through our weekly magazine and community-based programs, we create pathways to income, amplify lived experience, and build connections that challenge how people understand homelessness and poverty in Chicago.
How it all began...
It’s hard to believe that the first edition of StreetWise hit the streets of Chicago on August 24th, 1992. Our founder, Judd Lofchie, found a practical solution to the crisis of homelessness in Chicago. The idea was simple: give homeless individuals a chance to regain personal dignity and help themselves by selling a newspaper to earn an income rather than beg. More than 350 homeless individuals purchased and sold more than 60,000 issues of StreetWise within the first 5 weeks! Just like that Chicago joined the street paper movement.
StreetWise publishes an award-winning weekly magazine rooted in grassroots, solutions-focused journalism. We cover the issues that shape everyday life in Chicago—homelessness, poverty, inequality, and justice—while creating a platform for people with lived experience to share their stories as writers, contributors, and thought leaders.
StreetWise is a member of the International Network of Street Papers and the Chicago Independent Media Alliance. Our work has received numerous local, state, and national awards, and we adhere to the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics.
StreetWise vendors are self-employed microentrepreneurs who earn income by selling the magazine. Vendors purchase each issue at a set price and sell it for a profit, creating a flexible and dignified opportunity to generate income. It is a job!
Beyond income, vendors build relationships with readers, serve as a visible and trusted presence in their communities, and challenge perceptions about homelessness and poverty through everyday interaction. Their work creates meaningful connections across economic divides while supporting basic
needs such as housing, transportation, food, and healthcare.
StreetWise provides a welcoming drop-in space where individuals can access immediate needs and resources in a respectful, community-centered environment. Services include:
Case Management & Supportive Services
StreetWise offers on-site social work support, providing direct services and referrals, including:
These services are designed to complement our earned-income model, helping individuals stabilize, build trust, and take steps toward longer-term goals.
StreetWise is a community that honors the dignity of each individual.
StreetWise is Empowering People to Work!