Update on St. Martin’s Programs
The global COVID-19 pandemic has driven St. Martin’s Programs to reimagine and improve the way we provide housing for our homeless senior population. We have let go of processes that have been in place for decades.
St. Martin de Porres Shelter
We have settled into our “new normal”, a 24/7 schedule of operations for 52 men, which is a major change from our previous practice of serving 212 men nightly. St. Martin’s interior looks quite different from its original layout. The 212 sleeping mats that once covered our floor have been replaced by 52 cubicles. Each cubicle has a mattress and bed; nightstand; chair; tray table; and an electrical outlet. Now the men have extra space, privacy, and a more dignified shelter experience.
We continue to monitor the men’s temperatures as a measure to identify a person who may have a COVID-19 infection. We wear masks and encourage people to stay socially distant and wash their hands. Now that we are open 24 hours a day, we serve three meals daily. The men do not need to leave, which makes it easier for them to “Stay Home, Stay Healthy”.
Since St. Martin’s capacity has been reduced, we have moved many residents to other locations such as Junction Point Shelter, which we staff and manage.
Lazarus Center
Lazarus Center’s “new normal” is a 24/7 schedule of operations for 66 seniors, which is a major change from our previous practice of serving hundreds of people daily. Our main building is closed and we currently operate in Bob G’s Shelter, which we staff and manage. Many volunteers have found ways to work from home. Volunteers of all ages, from students to retirees, help prepare meals for participants at our various sites.
St. Martin's Programs staff's absolute dedication to our mission of care and mercy remains intact, even in the face of a global pandemic we continue to transition our clients into permanent housing. Your generous donations allow our staff heroes to continue providing critical care and service to Seattle’s most vulnerable population.
