The extensive renovation, designed by the architectural firm (r)evolution architecture, llc, was made possible through the generous support of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, directed by Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García, the IL Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity championed by Former House Representative Jim Durkin along with additional contributions from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHS), the Hinsdale Junior Women’s Club, and The Hope Chest. The revitalized shelter now features enhanced security, updated living spaces, and additional resources to better support survivors of domestic violence and their families.
“Constance Morris House has been a sanctuary for the women, men, and their children who’ve experienced domestic violence in our community for decades,” said Angela Curran, CEO of Pillars Community Health. “This renovation marks our move away from a dormitory-style setup to private suites for survivors and their families. It ensures that we can continue to provide a safe and supportive environment, helping them to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.”
Kim Stephens, Vice President of Domestic and Sexual Violence Services at Pillars Community Health, added, “The upgrades to Constance Morris House reflect our commitment to offering comprehensive, trauma-informed care. We are incredibly grateful to our community partners and funders who have made this transformation possible.”
Constance Morris House has been a cornerstone of our mission to provide whole person care. For over 40 years, Pillars Community Health’s domestic violence services have provided emergency shelter, crisis intervention, medical and legal advocacy, counseling, and health care services to adult and child survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Located in La Grange, IL, it remains the only shelter among four providers of non-residential domestic violence services within the near west and southwest suburbs. The nearest overnight facilities are located approximately 10 miles to the east or west and 20 miles north or south.
The need for significant improvements to Constance Morris House became even more apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our shelter residents were temporarily moved off-site to allow for modifications that enabled safe physical distancing. The newly renovated shelter now includes individual private family rooms with flexible layouts, private bathrooms, upgraded kitchen and group areas, increased laundry facilities, and enhanced fire safety, electrical, and HVAC systems. Additional spaces include a children’s playroom, group meeting areas, and updated playground equipment.
These renovations ensure that we can continue to provide shelter and comprehensive support services in a safe, healthy, and trauma-informed environment. Best practices for serving domestic violence survivors emphasize reducing isolation and surrounding individuals and families with supportive, knowledgeable staff to provide essential resources, crisis intervention, and opportunities to engage with other survivors.