Advancing Community Health Across Chicago’s Southland

Ingalls Development Foundation knows that lasting change happens when organizations come together around a shared commitment to improving the lives of people across the Chicago Southland. As the philanthropic arm of UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial Hospital, our foundation connects donors, corporate partners and community organizations with opportunities that expand access to equitable, quality healthcare and improve health outcomes across our 13-zip-code, 15-mile service area—including Harvey, Flossmoor, Tinley Park and surrounding communities.

We believe health outcomes are shaped by more than clinical care. Our region faces real barriers — food insecurity, unemployment, limited access to affordable housing, and systemic inequities — and we work alongside residents, community partners, and our Community Advisory Council to address them directly.

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While IDF directly supports programs and initiatives that address critical health and wellness needs, we also work alongside local organizations, businesses, civic groups and community leaders to create greater impact. Through partnerships, collaborative initiatives, steering committees and community networks, we bring people and resources together to identify community needs, share expertise and develop solutions that strengthen the health and well-being of the communities we call home.

Maternal & Infant Health

Every healthy beginning matters. The Healthy Baby Network connects expecting mothers and families with prenatal care, education and practical resources to support healthier pregnancies and birth outcomes. The program also hosts an annual Drive-Thru Baby Shower, where families receive diaper bags filled with essential supplies, gifts, education and connections to community resources.

Nutrition Stations

Good nutrition is an important part of a cancer patient’s journey, but access to healthy food isn’t always easy. Our Complimentary Nutrition Stations provide free, nutritious food to oncology patients and their families, helping ease the burden of food insecurity during treatment. Since 2021, more than 14,000 cancer infusion patients and family members have received food through the program.

Community Garden

Our Community Garden puts the idea that “food is medicine” into action, growing fresh produce for oncology patients and families while creating opportunities for nutrition education, community engagement and workforce development. The program also brings together local farmers, community partners and volunteers to grow and share healthy food throughout the Southland.

Integrative Wellness

Cancer care goes beyond medical treatment. No-cost integrative wellness services give patients additional ways to care for their mind, body and emotional well-being while complementing their medical care. Services include massage, Thumper, reiki, reflexology, auriculotherapy, guided meditation and comfort support.

Education & Workforce Development

We believe investing in students today helps build a stronger healthcare community for tomorrow. Through annual scholarships and internships for Thornton Township students, as well as scholarships for Ingalls employees and their children, we help make education and careers in healthcare more accessible.

Community Health & Partnerships

Better health doesn’t happen in a hospital alone. We work alongside organizations, businesses, civic groups and community leaders throughout the Chicago Southland to address local needs, expand resources and create opportunities for people to thrive. Together, we can reach more people, strengthen our communities and build a healthier future.