About Lakeland Out Of The Elements Shelter
As an Indigenous-driven not-for-profit, we assist those experiencing homelessness, near to homelessness, and/or those seeking refuge from the elements to access the support they need at the moment and as they transition into permanent housing when they are ready and able.
The Mission of Lakeland Out Of The Elements Shelter is to work with the community and stakeholders to provide hope and support to those who are homeless or near to becoming homeless to access the assistance they need to enhance their quality of life.
Our Mandate
To provide a warm, supportive, and safe place for adult men and women who are experiencing homelessness or close to being homeless to access the supports they need.
Our Vision
Working with community members, service providers, and stakeholders to ensure safe and affordable housing, sustainable life activities, and livable employment opportunities for all to achieve.
Our Values
Working with community members, service providers, and stakeholders to ensure safe and affordable housing, sustainable life activities, and livable employment opportunities for all to achieve.
Objectives of Lakeland Out Of The Elements Shelter:
- To provide a mat program in our emergency shelter to those in crisis.
- To provide transitional and supportive housing for individuals in need.
- To support the homeless to transition into housing already available in our community.
- To connect individuals with multiple barriers to community supports.
- To raise funds to support our existing work and plans to support the homeless in the future.
- To continue building a relationship with corporate partners and community agencies that can support our clients.
- To obtain and increase our programs and space, as the need arises, and as finances allow.
Our Story
How Lakeland Out Of The Elements Shelter Got Started
In 2007, our first chairperson noticed a young man camping in the woods behind a grocery store located on the edge of town. She also noticed that he did not appear to be prepared for camping as he had no tent or other camping articles. She decided to speak to him and learned that he had come to this area for a job which fell through, leaving him with no money and no place to go. He was trying to earn enough money for food and transportation to leave the area by doing odd jobs as he found them.
As winter approached, she became very concerned for his welfare and wondered what he would do as it became colder. The good news is that he was able to leave the area before winter, and the idea of a Men’s Shelter was born.
A dedicated group of concerned citizens came together in a space donated by the Victory Church and their pastor, Les Bourassa.
Through hard work and lots of fundraising, this dedicated group of people have struggled to provide shelter to the homeless in our community since 2009.