A Chicago pastor is offering a helping hand to a mother, who is now facing child endangerment charges after seven children were found alone inside a vacant apartment.
Jessie Hunt, 31, is charged with child endangerment after seven children — all under the age of 14 and one of them a 23-month old baby — were found Friday during a wellbeing check in a vacant apartment unit in the Humboldt Park neighborhood.
The Rev. Donovan Price of Street Pastors said he would like to extend a helping hand. He told CBS 2 that he hopes the story inspires others to come forward and ask for help before it’s too late.
“Nobody’s going to judge you. If you want to come forward, we’ve gathered several resources for you, including a house that someone is willing to rent for you, among other things you may need – bedding, furniture – all the things you need for a good start and a nice start for this new year,” Donovan said.
Ads
All seven children were taken to St. Mary’s Hospital where, according to police, they were in good condition.
The Department of Children and Family Services is investigating. The children have all been placed with a relative.
During a court appearance on Saturday, Hunt’s defense argued that she is a single mother with a GED raising seven children on her own and that the children were unharmed. She was released on $10,000 recognizance bond, meaning she doesn’t have to pay bail if she makes all her required court dates.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings