Port Alberni Shelter Society

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WHO WE ARE
The Port Alberni Shelter Society (PASS) is a non profit organization that works with people who are homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless. The Port Alberni Shelter is run by the Port Alberni Shelter Society which was first established in 1972 as the Friendship Lodge, and has provided supportive housing and emergency shelter since that date. Currently the Shelter has a total of 42 beds with 12 reserved for emergency shelter clients. Every effort is made to accommodate people with emergency housing needs while maintaining a secure and stable environment for long-term supportive housing clients. The Shelter is open from 6am to 1am daily for intake and provides a complete meal service for all residents.

OUR PURPOSE
The purpose of our organization is to act as a gateway to stable housing and supportive services. The Port Alberni Shelter provides temporary accommodation and essential services designed to meet the immediate needs of the homeless. Our organization serves as a link to help people reconnect with community agencies and supportive services. By offering temporary shelter, food and gateway services, we assist residents in their efforts to becoming more self-sufficient and help them move towards independence and long-term sustainable housing.

VISION STATEMENT
We envision an Alberni Valley where everyone has a safe home and a fulfilling life in the community.

MISSION STATEMENT
The Port Alberni Shelter Society is a non-profit society committed to provide safe supportive housing for people in need. We provide emergency shelter, transitional housing and long-term affordable housing with supports[1] to empower individuals towards self-sufficiency and a sense of belonging within our community.
We will:
  • Be a model for compassion and acceptance of everyone regardless of their circumstances;
  • Create a safe environment of mutual respect for each other;
  • Maintain a welcoming environment where residents feel “at home”;
  • Engage our residents as active participants in the operation of our facilities and the provision of our services;
  • Work in cooperation with other organizations with similar or complimentary objectives;
  • Educate and inspire our community to do the same.
[1] Supports include the provision or facilitation of; Food services, Harm reduction services, Health care, Addictions care, Life skills training, Education, Employment, Advocacy, Family, community and cultural connections, Transition to other housing options.  

PROGRAM GOALS & OBJECTIVES
The goals and objectives of our programs are to accommodate the needs of homeless individuals and families and to facilitate access to stable housing and integrated support services. We endeavour to provide safe, accessible, emergency shelter accommodation services for homeless clients and ensure that a high standard of client services are provided. We strive to provide services that are accountable, effective, and responsive to client needs through supportive communication, partnerships and innovative initiatives that are client centered.  Our programs are funded in part by BC Housing, BC Gaming, and by the generous donations of Port Alberni businesses and individuals.

ELIGIBILITY
Emergency shelter is available to all adults (age 19 and older) in need without discrimination on the basis of age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or cultural background, mental health status, religious beliefs or physical disability. Due to capacity constraints, services may be limited.