New center to help homeless coming to Humboldt Park

A group that has helped homeless families for more than a decade will soon be able to help many more. La Casa Norte broke ground on a new facility Friday in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood.

The organization's mission is to serve young people and families confronting homelessness. The group provides stable housing and helps at-risk youth.

La Casa Norte has helped tens of thousands of people in need across the city since it started in 2002.

The new Pierce House and Community Center on West North Avenue near North Central Park Avenue will provide 25 new housing units for families in need, a health center, a food pantry, job training and more. The group will be able to help an additional 2,000 people a year.

"We are meeting people when they are the most vulnerable. We are partnering with them, walking hand in hand, so they can realize the life of their dreams. That may be through housing, through therapy services, food, nutrition, education, clothing, anything that someone needs to get back on their feet. We are here to provide that," said Sol Flores, executive director, La Casa Norte.