Heather Lippe, Clinical Social Worker, Village of Downers Grove, discussed the Village's launch of the Social Services and Referral Program in February of 2022.  The program is designed to connect the residents of Downers Grove who are in need of services with the agencies that provide the services.  The program consists of multiple methods for individuals to connect with the Village social worker, which includes in person, by phone, on line, and through requests from other village departments.  The Village social worker participates in many local organizations or coalitions, such as the Downers Grove Township Senior Advisory Committee and the DuPage County Veterans Suicide Prevention Coalition.   
 During 2022, the program received 513 referrals connecting residents with resources.  Almost 85% of those residents accepted the information provided to them.  Those who identified as female accounted for 58% of all referrals and those who identified as male accounted for 42%.  Those aged 60-89 accounted for 58% of the total referrals.  The top 6 categories for referrals/services included mental health, senior resources, housing/shelter, transportation, county related services, and medical resources.  Senior resources include county related services, transportation, and legal services.