As of the 2020 census, Harvey had a population of 20,324. The racial makeup of the city is 63% Black and nearly 30% Hispanic/Latinx. 31% of the population lives below the poverty line.
Founded in 1891 by Turlington W. Harvey, the city of Harvey was originally intended as a temperance settlement. It quickly grew in the late 1800s and had its greatest population boom in the post-war years, when it was home to the Buda Engine Co. Following the closure of the Dixie Square Mall and the restructuring of steel and other industries, Harvey has experienced population decline since the 1980s. Disinvestment has challenged the city, but residents remain hopeful that cross-sector collaboration and investment will allow them to rebuild affordable housing and improve the town’s once vibrant infrastructure.
The Harvey Neighborhood Network was launched in June 2023 in partnership with Cook County through the Transforming Places Program, with support from Nicor Gas Foundation. Restoration Ministries and CEDA serve as the “community quarterbacks” for the Network.
Harvey Community Vision
As a new Neighborhood Network launched in 2023, Harvey will build its coalition and refine its community vision over the next three years.
The Harvey Neighborhood Network has promising plans and vision for strengthening their local community. Plus, they have a high degree of readiness to succeed in implementing the Neighborhood Network model.
Coalition Highlights
Restoration Ministries and CEDA are leading the vision and work of the Harvey Neighborhood Network.
“Restoration Ministries is ready to hit the ground running in Harvey. With our co-community quarterback CEDA, the Harvey Neighborhood Network will help us provide life-changing opportunities for even more youth, adults, and families”