St. Martin de Porres Shelter

“I’m enjoying my new neighborhood and hearing the sounds of laughter from children in the community… I truly believe I wouldn’t be here today without these [St. Martin’s] folks, because it’s so tough out there [on the streets]… it really is.” ~ Dave, former participant of St. Martin de Porres Shelter

Before arriving at St. Martin de Porres Shelter, Dave had a stable living situation and work history for decades in Seattle. However, he was unable to find work after losing his job. In time, his unemployment benefits and savings ran out. When Dave found shelter at St. Martin’s, he told us he wanted to return to the work force and find housing as soon as possible. Nevertheless, his plans were delayed because he became ill.

During his recovery process Dave said the Shelter helped him with all of his needs: food, clothing, medical supplies, and transportation to his doctor’s appointments. Eventually, he was able to move into a two-year transitional housing program with help from St. Martin’s case manager. Dave says, “I appreciate everyone who supports the Shelter. St. Martin’s really helped me piece my life back together.”

St. Martin de Porres Shelter, a program of the Archdiocesan Housing Authority – Coordinated Care Agency, will begin its 41st year of ministry this October. The Shelter operates 365 days a year at its full capacity of 52 people. Primary services include:

· warm, safe, clean, and dry shelter provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
· nutritious breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks
· health care assistance for those injured or too ill to be on the streets
· nursing care and transportation to medical facilities
· housing-focused case management, information, and referrals
· hygiene and shower facilities; towels and toiletries
· laundry facilities
· clothing room
· mailing address for participants’ use
· chemical dependency counseling referrals
· medical referrals and counseling from VA outreach worker

St. Martin’s staff’s absolute dedication to our mission of care and mercy remains intact. We continue to work the front lines protecting the health and safety of the vulnerable folks we serve and actively work to transition unhoused people into stable, permanent housing. Since 2012, the year we added case managers, St. Martin’s and our sister programs have helped over 1,200 men move out of shelters!

Your donation to St. Martin’s offers homeless men a clean, hospitable place to stay, a sense of family, and hope for their future. A $100 donation will provide a 24-hour period of shelter, case management, and vital services for a vulnerable elder. We deeply appreciate all gifts!

Learn more about St. Martin de Porres Shelter at http://www.ccsww.org/stmartin.