(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- This week's Difference Maker highlights an organization in Sheridan Park and Englewood that provides housing and other services for Chicagoans living with HIV/AIDS.
"When I moved in 20 years ago, I literally fell on my knees and kissed the ground,” recalls Evany Turk. “I walked into that apartment and fell on my knees and cried.”
Turk had been homeless and tested positive for HIV. So, she says it was like a miracle when she arrived at Chicago House and everything was there.
"I didn't have to worry about anything, really,” she said. “They had everything down to the pillowcases sheets on my bed, to the can opener in my kitchen.”
Turk is still at Chicago House, but as the organization’s director of residential housing.
The organization not only provides housing for people who are living with HIV/AIDS, it also provides supportive services.
Plus, Chicago House offers employment assistance, education services and a program with support geared towards individuals who identify as transgender, non-binary or gender expansive.
With the organization’s assistance, individuals can focus on reaching their full potential without having to worry about how they're going to get basic needs.
"It can literally change your life like it did mine,” Turk said.
Now, she's using her experience to help others going through something similar. This includes Chicago House resident Michelle, who says she remembers the moment she found out she had a place to stay.
Michelle says she spends most of her time volunteering at food pantries and counseling sessions.
"Anything to kind of give back to someone else, you know?” she says.
According to the Chicago Department of Public Health, more than 22,000 people in Chicago are living with HIV.
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