Homeless Shelter:      St. Peter's Haven will generally house 6 to 12 families a year.  These families have usually had a crisis in their lives that does not allow them to provide for themselves.  We accept clients on a need basis, with those in the greatest threat of homelessness being given priority.  Our objectives are to stabilize the family by providiing shelter, food clothing, employment counseling, parental support and permanent housing assistance.

 

Food Pantry:    The Haven runs its Community Pantry as one step in preventing homelessness for low-income individuals and families.  It also provides support for adequate nutrition for this population.  The Pantry is open 3 mornings a week, staffed with the help of volunteers from St. Peter's Church, the community and other organizations.  We tell our participants to pay their rent and utilities first and come to the Pantry as needed so that they do not jeopardize their housing agreements.  Services also include the availability of warm clothing, clothing for children, baby items and some household furnishings.

 

English As A Second Language Classes:     In order to improve the quality of life and the employability of our non-English speaking clients, we have implemented 2 levels of ESL classes:  Beginner and Intermediate.  These classes are also open to the greater community.  The classes are FREE except for a $20.00 registration fee.  The students are evaluated at the beginning and at the end of every semester by means of a pre and post test and by attendance records.

 

Citizenship Classes:    The Haven runs its Citizenship Preparation Classes so that immigrants are able to gain a sense of self-confidence  and enable them to move into better employment opportunities.  The classes are FREE  except for a $20.00 registration fee.  The classes will be held twice a week for 6 weeks in the summer and in the fall.