The residence, with a capacity of 20 people in a dormitory-like setting, provides up to 120 days of housing, food, and supportive services for people experiencing homelessness. The semi-private rooms are comfortable but simple, encouraging residents to socialize in the common areas or in the community, to attend classes or job training classes in the community, to look for employment if they are not already employed, and to seek appropriate housing. The program provides a safe and secure environment in which to stabilize clients, and then help them move to affordable housing or appropriate second stage housing. Meals are served three times daily, there is a laundry facility, TV, and other amenities. Located in West Rogers Park, it is convenient to public transportation as well as to the Ark for its wide array of services, and to community agencies and services.

Thanks to a generous donor, The Ark is able to offer seven apartments in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago to clients, rent-free, for one year. The New Beginnings Program provides a respite from the financial burden of rent and an opportunity to become financially self-reliant. Each client or family will work with Ark staff—case managers, employment counselor, and financial counselor—to work towards financial stability and the goal of assuming the rent payments on their own after 12 months.