9601 East Ogden Avenue, La Grange, IL 60525  (708) 354-0858

Celebrating the Heroines of Housing Reform

This Women’s History Month, BEDS Plus is proud to honor the trailblazing women who fought for housing rights, the dedicated women who serve our clients today, and the resilient women we support who are overcoming housing insecurity.

Women have long been at the forefront of housing reform, working tirelessly to ensure that safe, stable, and affordable housing is a right for all—not a privilege. Their work continues to inspire us as we serve our community, where 53% of our clients are women—many of whom are survivors of domestic violence, single mothers, and individuals striving to rebuild their lives.

Recognizing Women Who Shaped Housing Reform

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we reflect on the incredible women whose work laid the foundation for housing justice and community development:

Jane Addams – Founded Hull-House, pioneering wraparound services for low-income families—an approach BEDS Plus continues today.

Catherine Bauer – Advocated for public housing, helping create the U.S. Housing Act of 1937, a legacy we uphold through our affordable housing initiatives.

Clara Fox – Championed mixed-income housing, influencing our commitment to inclusive housing solutions.

Patricia Roberts Harris – Led HUD as the first Black woman in a Cabinet position, fighting for fair housing policies, a mission that still drives us today.

Honoring the Women of BEDS Plus

We celebrate the incredible women of BEDS Plus—our staff and volunteers, who work tirelessly on the front lines with patience and compassion. Day in and day out, they navigate challenging and often emotional situations, offering stability, support, and hope to those in need. Their dedication continues the legacy of the heroines before them, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to rebuild their life.