Misfortunes come unannounced and at such times it becomes easier to face the hardships if we know who to fall back on. The sad truth is that we are living in an isolated world and even the families are ending in broken homes. The conventional support system that was available from the family, neighborhood and church is not always easy to find.

The most recent catastrophe that hit millions of people came with Hurricane Katrina. At such times of distress and emergency it is good to know that the government is there to help. It is not unfair to expect this help from the government in return for all the taxes we pay during our life. Fortunately, all states provide some social services. However, some states and local governments are more helpful to its citizens than others.

Illinois is one of the greatest states to live in because of its commitment to the well-being of its citizens. In times of need, social support and services are available to help in the state of Illinois. While there is not time to list all of the options available to citizens, here a few of the great ones to keep in mind.

Since winters are usually very harsh in the Midwest often the heating bills can get out of control for Illinois residents. So the Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP) comes to their rescue to design homes for the cold and cruel winters and help them become more energy efficient thereby reducing the heating costs.

IHWAP helps low income families survive the harsh Midwest winters by getting replacement windows and weatherizing your home against the vagaries of nature. It goes to the extent of arranging licensed contractors to come to your home and maintain your heating and air conditioning systems.

For people who are down on their luck and barely scraping by, health care costs can be cause for major concern. This is especially the case for single parents who cannot afford the health care services that their children need. Fortunately, the state of Illinois provides much needed assistance to people with children in need of medical care.

Kid Care is the Illinois state program that offers health care coverage for children living in low income families. The service also provides pregnant mothers with the resources they need to obtain proper neonatal care. Plus, for parents who have insurance through their employer or a private insurance company, the state of Illinois will pay those premiums in certain circumstances.

The state of Illinois has a number of other great programs meant to enrich and improve the quality of life of its residents. Whether you are in need of help in paying a high utility bill or seek treatment for a chemical or substance abuse addiction, the state of Illinois has programs to help you get back on your feet. While none of us prepare or plan for hardship, the truth is that it sometimes finds us and by the kind graces of states like Illinois, we are able to persevere in such trying times.