The Ark’s Peterson Ave. offices are closed. Our Chicago office is now open at 6450 N. California Ave. Learn more.

About Us

Anchored in Empathy. Powered by Community.

The Ark is a vibrant hub of vital human services, empowered by Jewish values, that lifts and strengthens the Jewish community.

Building Our Future

For 50 years The Ark has provided free care and support to Chicagoland Jews ​who have the ​greatest needs.​ This uplifting, landmark renovation celebrates The Ark’s welcoming community.

How We Began

In 1970, a group of Jewish Chicagoans recognized the need for free medical services in their community. Led by Dr. Binyomin Sokol, this idea became a free clinic in Albany Park, known as The Ark. The little clinic grew to offer a food pantry, a pharmacy, financial assistance, legal assistance, and a thrift shop; we’ve grown more and more throughout the past 50 years.