217 Today: Champaign’s only low-barrier shelter is at risk of closing. Some guests are worried

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Strides is a low-barrier shelter at the corner of Market and Washington Streets in downtown Champaign. Guests James Thompson and Toby “Money” Sartain share a morning smoke in front of the shelter on Saturday, November 8.
  • Photo: Giuliana Means / IPM News

Monday, December 8, 2025

Today’s headlines: 

  • The Illinois State Board of Education is working on a plan to improve math skills among K-12 students.
  • The Trump administration is demanding that Illinois hand over data on nearly 2 million SNAP recipients or risk losing federal funds.
  • Within a few months, a homeless shelter in Champaign may close – if it doesn’t secure additional funding.
  • The Fighting Illini women’s Basketball team hosted the University of Indiana at State Farm Center on Saturday afternoon.

In today’s deep dive, the only low-barrier shelter in Champaign-Urbana is at risk of closing. Some guests worry they’ll end up on the streets.

217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Giuliana Means, Capitol News Illinois, Mawa Iqbal and Jonathan Matthew.

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Stephanie Orellana