Shelter House Thunder Bay
Shelter House began its operation in 1980 under the name Thunder Bay Emergency Shelter, when several concerned individuals recognized a need to provide overnight shelter against the cold winter nights. It was originally built to service a 'temporary' homeless problem. In 1984, Thunder Bay Emergency Shelter became incorporated and was relocated to the corner of Victoria and Simpson Streets. This building was constructed by volunteers on a limited budget, using donated materials. Upon completion, 28 male beds and seven female beds were available.
The need of food for the residents, as well as for others living in the vicinity, was soon realized, and a Soup Kitchen, operated by volunteers, began providing hot nutritious meals every afternoon. By 2003, over 124,000 meals were served to those in need.
A free Clothing Depot service soon became available at Shelter House. For three afternoons per week, ( Mon. Wed. & Fri.) volunteers helped individuals find suitable clothing.
A drop-in lounge opened in the fall of 1989. This area offered a safe environment to the residents and clients of Shelter House during the day, and provided access to educational, recreational and employment opportunities. This encouraged the residents from loitering around business areas, and bypassed any harassment or humiliation that they may have encountered on the street.
The Shelter has grown and developed because concerned citizens have taken action to address homelessness within our community. This agency depends on the assistance of its volunteers who currently provide the Shelter with over 50,000 hours annually.
Historically, Shelter House has survived with the majority of its income derived from private donations. As an organization, it continues to explore ways to stabilize its funding base. Through the development of flexible and optional programs, Shelter House can better serve its clients and community. Currently, this agency is able to secure funding from philanthropic foundations and various government sources to enhance current services, and implement new programming. However, until core funding is established, Shelter House will continue to have a need for corporate and private sector funding and donations.
This emergency refuge was born out of a need to provide security that no existing agency was able to serve. Shelter House is the social safety net for many people due to the rigid criteria of other agencies that are designed to help specific special needs groups.
Shelter House is proud to call Rotary Shelter House, located at 420 George St., it's new home. The shelter was built with the tremendous support of our caring community and opened its doors on September 25, 2006.
Our organization and facility practice non-partisan views and are tolerant of individuals who are often discarded by society. Our clients are people who are in need of a helping hand. We believe everyone has tremendous potential. Only in working together can we create a positive change in the lives of those who we serve.
