The Department of Family and Support Services answers questions from alderpeople at a budget hearing on Nov. 6, 2026. [Livestream]

Alderpeople on Friday pressed Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) officials on Mayor Brandon Johnson’s proposed expansions of the city’s summer youth jobs program and homelessness services, questioning how a $24 million boost for youth jobs would be spent and how the department serves people experiencing homelessness. 

Johnson’s 2027 budget proposal includes the additional $24 million for Chicago Youth Works, which the mayor’s office said would fund a record 40,000 paid positions, as well as an additional $15 million for DFSS’ homeless services.