On the far Southeast Side of Chicago is a neighborhood of 10,000 residents known as Hegewisch.  Just to north, separated by acres of vacant and active industrial land, lies the East Side, a neighborhood of about 20,000 residents
These sister communities were founded at the end of the 19^th Century, growing out of the heavy industry in the South Lake Michigan area.

Historically filled with white Eastern European ethnic blue-collar workers, both neighborhoods suffered catastrophic impact from the collapse of American Steel industry in the early 1970's.

Large numbers of Hispanic Americans and Mexican immigrants moving into the neighborhoods have changed the ethnic balance.  The HCC works towards making all families aware of the services available to them.

Recent Community Changes

• In September, 2000 Ford Motor Company announced plans with the City of Chicago and the State of Illinois to develop a "manufacturing campus" adjacent to the Chicago Assembly Plant at 130th & Torrence Ave.  The new development will accommodate Ford suppliers and bring 1000 new jobs to the region.
  

• Senior Suites of Chicago offers 85 units for moderate income seniors.  This is the first such facility in these neighborhoods.