What is the Center for Women in Transition?

The Center for Women in Transition, or CWT, is a transitional shelter for women and children in Champaign-Urbana, lllinois. Residents at CWT experience homelessness for a multitude of reasons, which include but are not limited to: low incomes, recovery from substance abuse, mental and physical health challenges and domestic violence.

How is CWT different from most standard emergency shelters?

The majority of emergency shelters typically only permit short-term stays of about 6 weeks to 3 months. At CWT, we allow women to reside with us for up to two years. This offers our residents the opportunity to pursue goals that could help them take steps toward permanent housing and self-improvement.

Why do women come to CWT?

Most women seeking shelter at CWT have two commonalities: they are currently devoid of sustainable income and they lack positive support systems. Because we live in a society that doesn't always provide affordable housing or adequate wages, CWT attempts to bridge the gap by linking women with community resources and teaching essential skills. Women who come to CWT know that they can look forward to support, guidance and opportunity if they are willing to apply themselves.

How does CWT help those experiencing homeless?

In addition to providing housing, CWT offers many unique programs designed to encourage self-sufficiency. Coordinators on our support staff oversee training sessions on topics such as life skills, parenting, job counselling and stress relief. We also collaborate with other agencies in the community in order to maximize development.

What is our success rate at CWT?

At CWT we measure success by looking at a client's achievement in at least one of the following areas: acquisition of permanent housing, increase in income level or completion of an educational program. With these criteria, our average success rate is approximately 70%.

Is there really a homelessness problem in Central Illinois?

It is a common a misconception to assume that homelessness is an urban phenomenon due to the fact that displaced individuals are often more visible in urban areas. In reality, however, most homeless persons in the United states do not live on the streets, but instead are invisibly homeless. This means that they live in unsafe housing, motels and cars, or that they rely on a succession of makeshift accommodations provided by friends and family members. On average, 300 women apply for housing at CWT each year, indicating a continuing homeless problem in Central Illinois.

What sort of needs does CWT have?

At CWT we have numerous needs ranging from household items to financial support. Please visit our donations page for more information.

How can I get involved with CWT?

There are multiple ways that commtmity member can make a differenc at CWT. For more information, visit our volunteer page

How do I get to CWT?

You can find directions to our shelter here