The Origins of ESLARP

East St. Louis and Surrounding Areas

In Illinois, residents of East St. Louis and some adjacent communities have experienced urban distress up close and for a long time. Post-war industrial abandonment led to loss of blue-collar jobs; white households moved out in large numbers and the population reduced by over half. With shrinking tax rolls, local government has abandoned many services that are commonplace in other communities. Employed residents continue move to communities that provide these basic amenities, and population loss and distress continue.       

The distress is very evident. Over half the residents live below the poverty level, and unemployment is around 30%. Almost two-thirds of the children in school are eligible for a free or reduced-price lunch. Many have elevated lead levels in their blood stream that affects their ability to learn and develop. While some of the housing stock is in good condition, much of it is derelict and creates deplorable living conditions for the poorest residents. Many residents are victims of predatory lending practices that keep them from home ownership and deeper in poverty.

Despite this bleak picture, the people of East St. Louis have shown a tremendous will to address problems themselves. Many residents are actively involved in neighborhood revitalization, local churches support and often lead improvement efforts. A coalition of community organizations, the East St. Louis Community Action Network, coordinates activities among disparate organizations. These communal efforts have produced ambitious plans and tangible results: new infrastructure and housing investment; new learning and employment opportunities; increased local government accountability.

“In every encounter with our community partners I am learning something new! Where else would I get this kind of opportunity?” – Varkki George, ESLARP Faculty