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Haymarket Center is launching the Supportive Services and Treatment for Accessible Recovery – Together (START) program to support pregnant and postpartum women with opioid use disorders. This transformative initiative focuses on improving healthcare outcomes for women from areas of Chicago disproportionately affected by opioid use. It builds on Haymarket’s existing Pregnant and Postpartum Women (PPW) program, with a strong focus on trauma-informed care and addressing healthcare disparities.

“Most of the women we serve—99.9%—have experienced some form of trauma in their lives,” says Pamela Williams, Assistant Clinical Director. “Having a trauma therapist on board is absolutely phenomenal.”

The START program takes a multidisciplinary approach, involving recovery specialists, peer doulas, and a trauma therapist who work collaboratively to provide compassionate, comprehensive care for mothers and their infants. Participants will receive personalized intake assessments followed by a full year of support tailored to their unique needs, with a program goal of stabilizing 20 women annually.

The program goes beyond medical treatment, addressing broader needs such as emotional support, health education, and social services. By connecting participants with essential resources—START helps build a sustainable foundation for recovery and well-being for both mother and child.

Pamela emphasizes the importance of addressing societal stigma. “In the past, women with opioid use disorder, especially those who are pregnant or postpartum, were often unseen or ignored. Our goal is to change that by desensitizing and destigmatizing opioid use disorder in this population. Having staff with lived experience, combined with education and empathy, is key to breaking the stigma and helping women succeed.”

Melinda McMichael, a Haymarket staff member, exemplifies this approach through her role as a peer doula. Having achieved sobriety in January 2018, Melinda understands firsthand the challenges faced by women in recovery.

“I believe that the work we do is important. Programs like this, where other recovering people help others, are vital. We guide people through their recovery journey and show them how to navigate life in recovery,” Melinda says.

The START program fosters strategic partnerships with healthcare providers and community organizations, connecting patients to a network of care and creating a sense of connection and solidarity. This approach not only supports recovery but also helps to reduce healthcare disparities.

The long-term vision for the START program is to create lasting, positive change for both mothers and their children. By focusing on trauma-informed care, peer support, and sustainable recovery, the program strives to reduce the stigma and empower more women to rebuild their lives and secure a better future for themselves and their families.

Funding provided in a whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery through the Opioid Remediation Trust Fund or the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act. The Regional Care Coordination Agency (RCCA) is administered by Advocates for Human Potential, Inc., as authorized by CSFA 444-26-3078.

Photo by Rush System for Health

On January 20th, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service offered an opportunity to honor one of the nation’s most revered leaders for peace and justice, while living out his vision of service, unity, and uplifting marginalized communities. This commitment is at the core of Haymarket Center’s mission and is reflected in its long-standing partnership with Rush University Medical Center, with both organizations collaborating to better serve Chicago’s underserved communities.

As part of this mission, Haymarket’s outreach team visits Chicago’s homeless encampments daily, providing essential resources and helping individuals take steps towards stable housing. On MLK Day, four Rush Medical students joined the team, distributing food, hygiene kits, and other critical supplies to approximately 30 individuals. Despite the cold and challenges in engaging people who were often reluctant to interact due to fear or isolation, the collaboration between Haymarket and Rush had a meaningful impact, offering both immediate assistance and a sense of care to those in need.

Photo by Rush System for Health

For the Rush students, the experience was both eye-opening and inspiring. David, a Rush Medical student who regularly participates in the weekly detox clinic at Haymarket and joined the outreach efforts on MLK Day, reflected on the day’s importance and the partnership between the two organizations. “The collaboration between Rush University Medical Center and Haymarket Center on MLK Day furthers Dr. King’s legacy by bringing together different communities with the shared goal of helping those who are less fortunate. The event embodies the spirit of collaboration and strives to drive progress for vulnerable populations. By continuing this event every year, we ensure that Dr. King’s vision and impact remain alive and meaningful.”

This annual outreach exemplifies Dr. King’s vision of unity in action. By bringing together two organizations with a shared mission, this partnership directly meets the needs of Chicago’s most vulnerable. Haymarket Center is proud of its collaboration with Rush University Medical Center and remains steadfast in advancing service, collaboration, and compassion as core principles of its work.

Recovery is a journey filled with challenges and obstacles that can make it difficult to stay mindful and present. At Haymarket Center, art therapy has proven to be effective in helping patients heal through creative expression.

Art therapy provides a safe space for self-expression and healing. By engaging in creative activities, individuals are empowered to reconnect with their inner selves, build emotional resilience, and rewrite their personal narratives. Each brushstroke or color choice becomes a step towards transformation.

Itzel, a Haymarket patient, is a shining example of the impact that art therapy can have. While initially hesitant to participate, she now fully embraces the practice during her recovery process. Reflecting on her journey, Itzel shares the importance of openness.

“I learned in art therapy to give myself grace,” she says. “I feel more open to feeling my emotions like shame and dealing with them.”

Art therapy has also become a family practice for Itzel. “Even with visitations with my children, I involve them in art therapy. I allow my daughter to draw her emotions she can’t express through words.”

One particularly meaningful activity is the “Rock-Bottom” exercise where patients paint a natural stone to symbolize their journey. This narrative therapy technique encourages patients to reframe their “rock-bottom” experience, transforming them from symbols of failure to representations of hope and resilience.

“On my rock, I painted stairs. Because coming here to Haymarket, I was at the bottom of the staircase, but from being here I have learned to climb the stairs to the way up slowly,” Itzel shared.

Art therapy plays a crucial role in recovery by providing patients with a creative outlet to process their emotions and experiences. For Itzel and many others, it offers a healing space where they can find personal insights, strength, and hope— not only allowing them to overcome their past but also to shape their future.

Every year since 1988, December 1st has been observed as World AIDS Day, a day of global unity bringing together individuals affected by HIV to share their stories, honor those we’ve lost, and stand in solidarity in the ongoing fight against HIV. This year, as the world continues to battle the stigma surrounding HIV, Haymarket Center is embracing the theme of hope, unity, and celebration through a series of innovative and interactive events throughout the month of December.

In 2023, a survey conducted by Haymarket’s Health and Wellness team revealed that 5% of their patient population is affected by HIV. To honor both current and past patients, the Health and Wellness team at Haymarket Center has organized a variety of activities aimed at raising awareness, educating, and fostering a community spirit. “Our patients living with HIV are in a unique situation because they are not only living with HIV but also battling substance use disorders, and we want to help them return to their authentic selves,” says DJ Rivers, Manager of the Health & Wellness Department.

This year, Haymarket’s Health and Wellness team is taking a fresh approach to World AIDS Day. While previous years have focused on remembrance, this year’s events aim to be more engaging and educational. The team’s goal is to ensure the entire organization understands the significance of the work being done and how it impacts everyone. “Even in 2024, there are still misconceptions about HIV, how it’s transmitted, and who it affects. Our goal is to educate and provide hope,” Rivers explains.

The objective is clear: to challenge outdated perceptions and offer a space for patients to be celebrated and supported. “We want people living with HIV to be seen for who they are—not just their diagnosis. It’s about creating an environment where they feel part of a community,” says Rivers.

On December 3rd, Haymarket’s Health and Wellness team kicked off the month with a powerful opening ceremony. One of the highlights of this event was the creation of a remembrance tree. Patients and staff were invited to make ornaments to honor those they know who are living with HIV, have passed away, or simply to show their support. The act of creating and sharing these ornaments was a powerful way to engage the community and build solidarity. Participants were also invited to create pieces for a collective quilt that will serve as a symbolic gesture of the organization’s commitment to the fight against HIV.

The second event of the month will be a panel discussion that will feature a range of voices. Among the panelists will be someone newly diagnosed with HIV, as well as a long-term survivor—someone who has lived with HIV for over 15 years. The panel aims to highlight the diverse experiences of individuals living with the virus and discuss the challenges they face, both physically and emotionally. The event will be accompanied by refreshments and a chance for attendees to ask questions, learn more, and foster a sense of community.

To wrap up the month, Haymarket’s Health and Wellness team will host a festive gingerbread house-building event. “It’s a way to embrace the holiday season and bring some joy to our patients,” Rivers says. Alongside this lighthearted activity, the team will present the quilt created during the opening ceremony and distribute warming kits to patients. This thoughtful gesture is a small way to provide comfort and warmth during the colder months and remind everyone that they are part of a larger, caring community.

The inspiration behind these events is simple: Hope. Unity. Collaboration. Rivers explains, “People living with HIV want to be seen as people, not just as their diagnosis. These events give them a chance to be seen, to be celebrated, and to feel connected to others who understand their journey.”

As the month continues, Haymarket invites everyone to learn more about HIV, and challenge misconceptions. If you have any questions about World AIDS Day or future Health & Wellness programs, you can contact DJ Rivers directly:

Dejuane (DJ) Rivers, MA (he/him)
Manager, Health & Wellness Department
Office: 312-226-7984 ext. 222
Cell: 312-320-7437 Fax: 312-226-0325

On November 18, 2024, Mac’s Deli opened its doors, bringing a new dining experience to the heart of the West Loop. Named in honor of Haymarket’s late founder, Monsignor Ignatius McDermott—more commonly known as Father Mac—this collaboration with Vienna Beef and federal funding earmarked by Sen. Dick Durbin is the first-of-its-kind work training program for Haymarket Center patients in recovery.

Mac’s Deli, an expansion of our workforce training program, empowers individuals in recovery by equipping them with essential food service skills and certification in food safety. Designed to facilitate the transition of patients from recovery programs into the workforce, the deli is staffed by Haymarket patients and staff.

“With Mac’s Deli, our number one goal is to provide essential job training to our patients in recovery, so they leave Haymarket Center with marketable skills and a stronger chance of success,” said Dr. Dan Lustig, President & CEO of Haymarket Center. “A bonus is that Mac’s Deli gives our community a way to directly support people experiencing substance use disorders, homelessness and mental health challenges while helping fund our life-saving treatment programs.”

Haymarket Center celebrated the grand opening with Vienna Beef partners, community members, and civic leaders, including as Regional Director of the Great Lakes Region of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Michael Cabonagri and Vice Mayor Walter Brunett. Both of whom gave sincere remarks at the grand opening.

“I want to encourage the people in the City of Chicago, not just the neighborhood, to come this way and support Mac’s Deli,” remarked Vice Mayor Walter Brunett. “Because when you support Mac’s Deli, you support a life.”

Mac’s Deli not only symbolizes a hopeful future for its staff but also aims to foster connections within the community. As the first hot dog stand in the West Loop that offers Vienna products, it offers a unique and affordable dining option that is sure to become a beloved staple for the neighborhood.

“We aspire to be a positive force in the community, helping to create a welcoming environment,” Jesse Taylor, Vice President of Facilities and Business Services, who oversees the operations of Mac’s Deli adds. “Our hope is that families will feel comfortable coming to Mac’s Deli, creating lasting memories, and perhaps even sharing stories like, ‘This is where I had my first hot dog,’ passed down from father to child or grandparent.”

Join us at Mac’s Deli and indulge in our famous Chicago-style hot dog—Jesse Taylor’s personal favorite—along with a menu featuring Polish sausages, Italian beef, burgers, pastrami, corned beef, turkey pastrami and more.

We thank everyone who made the grand opening of Mac’s Deli possible and look forward to seeing you at Mac’s Deli soon!

Mac’s Deli is located at 124 N. Sangamon Street and will be open Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Give Mac’s Deli a follow on Instagram @macsdelihaymarket and Facebook @MacsDeliHaymarket.

Each year, the Haymarket Associate Board organizes a special project for Haymarket Center and its patients. This year, they are hosting a book drive to collect books that tell stories of hope and triumph, aiming to inspire and support the patients of Haymarket while also helping to create on-site libraries.

When asked about the biggest takeaway she hopes people will gain from reading about the book drive, Kelly McKay, president of the Associate Board, said, “How important it is to give to others. Something simple to many people like donating books, can have a really big impact on people who are working through a huge challenge in their lives.”

The Associate Board’s past impact projects have included creating a career clothing closet, transforming a recreation room, and supporting the holiday gift drive. This year’s focus on books will allow patients to engage with stories that inspire healing and personal growth. “We hope the donated books will give patients strategies, support, and new ideas during their recovery process,” Kelly added.

Two books central to the drive are The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday, which symbolizes overcoming adversity, and The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be by Joanna Gaines, a children’s book that promotes creativity and acceptance, embodying the spirit of hope Haymarket fosters in all its patients.

With the holiday season here, we’re reminded of the true joy found in giving. This book drive is an accessible way to make a big impact on an organization that provides the highest level of care to those who need it most. If you’re interested in donating new or gently used books, please contact Mariah Martinez, Development Specialist mmartinez@hcenter.org  or browse our Amazon Wishlist.

“This place is a success story waiting to happen for anyone who truly wants it,” Alicia reflects on her experience at Haymarket Center.

Before she arrived at Haymarket, Alicia faced significant challenges. She was homeless, living in a stairwell of an abandoned building frequented by drug dealers, and struggling with daily heroin use. Although she never wanted to engage in substance use activity, she lacked the courage to change her situation. In 2019, after hitting rock bottom, she made the desperate decision to get herself incarcerated, seeking merely a safe, warm place to sleep.

“Take me to jail,” she remembers saying repeatedly.

In July of 2021, through the Cook County Jail Thrive program that provides access to treatment at Haymarket Center instead of incarceration, Alicia found her way to this transformative facility. Here, she learned to read and write, obtained her birth certificate and state ID, and accessed crucial medical and DCFS services. Everything she needed to be an active participant of society was available to her at Haymarket Center.

Haymarket focuses on the whole person, offering comprehensive support for recovery. Our treatment programs are accessible to everyone 24/7/365, including the most underserved communities of the Chicago area. Please donate to help us to continue the care for all individuals, regardless of ability to pay for treatment.

Now, as she graduated from Haymarket’s programs year, Alicia has been sober for over two years and is working in the housekeeping department at Haymarket Center—her first job ever. With Haymarket’s assistance, she is also back in school, working toward her GED.

“Everything I do now is because I want to, not because I have to. I used to have to wake up to get money to get high—it was mandatory. Now, I go to school because I want my education. I come to work because I like my job. Nothing I do anymore is because I have to,” Alicia said.

However, despite her remarkable progress, she recently faced a heartbreaking setback.

Setbacks may occur, but patients at Haymarket learn invaluable lessons to overcome challenges, even after they leave.

“I learned at Haymarket that life will happen. I heard that every day since I came here, but I didn’t truly understand it until now. I can’t control life; I can only control myself. What matters is that I keep fighting for my future.”

Alicia’s journey is just one of many that highlight the transformative impact of Haymarket. When asked what she would tell potential donors, her message is clear and powerful: “There is another me out there waiting to be saved. This place saved me and has saved others before me. As long as Haymarket stands strong, it will continue to save lives.”

Please consider donating to Haymarket Center in support of patients like Alicia. Your contribution can help create more success stories like Alicia’s. Together, we can ensure that others have the opportunity to turn their lives around and gain courage to reclaim their futures.