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Ministry of Presence

St. Martin's Programs are committed to a "Ministry of Presence."  We believe that each person who comes through our doors must be treated with dignity and acceptance.  We must always meet people where they are -- not where we wish they were.  We believe that building close relationships with the people we serve is the ground for change and wholeness.  We believe that creating community and home for people is the best way for all of us to flourish and grow.  We believe that we are called into a life that protects the dignity of each person and provides for the basic needs of all.
 


Since 2012, the year St. Martin's Programs added case managers, we have helped an average of 100 homeless seniors move into permanent housing annually!

Generous donations through our golf tournament allow our programs to continue providing critical care to Seattle’s most vulnerable population.  Below, read about former resident Dave who began his journey back to independence at St. Martin de Porres Shelter.
 

Dave

"I'm enjoying my new neighborhood and hearing the sounds of laughter from children in the community.  I truly believe I wouldn't be here today without these [St Martin's] folks, because it's so tough out there [on the streets]... it really is."

~Dave, former client of St. Martin de Porres Shelter

Before arriving at St. Martin de Porres Shelter, Dave had a stable living situation and work history for decades in Seattle.  However, he was unable to find work after losing his job.  In time, his unemployment benefits and savings ran out.  When Dave found shelter at St. Martin's, he told us he wanted to return to the work force and find housing as soon as possible.  Nevertheless, his plans were delayed because he became ill.

During his recovery process Dave said the Shelter helped him with all of his needs:  food, clothing, medical supplies, and transportation to and from his doctor appointments.  Eventually, he was able to move into a two-year transitional housing program with help from St. Martin's case manager.  Dave says, "I appreciate everyone who supports the Shelter.  St. Martin's really helped me piece my life back together."

Who We Are

St. Martin’s Programs are three distinct programs serving older and disabled homeless individuals in downtown Seattle.  Together, St. Martin’s Programs provide over 56,500 shelter beds; serve over 169,700 meals; and help an average of 100 seniors move into permanent housing every year!

  • St. Martin de Porres Shelter
    A safe shelter for 52 men ages 50 and older.  The Shelter is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Services include hot meals, clothing, hygiene facilities, laundry room, housing case management, nursing care, transportation to medical appointments, a mailing address, veterans’ support, library, and mental health and substance-use counseling. 

  • The Inn Enhanced Shelter
    The Inn is a 24/7 enhanced shelter with related services for 65 men and women, aged 50 and older, experiencing homelessness.  This is a low barrier, harm reduction program.  Services include housing counseling; personal counseling with a therapist offsite; substance-use recovery support onsite which includes education, counseling groups, and individual sessions; and a computer lab.  

  • St. Martin's on Westlake
    Permanent, single-room-occupancy housing and support services for chronically homeless men 55 years of age and older.  The program serves 53 previously homeless men in downtown Seattle who, in addition to housing, receive meals, health care services, chemical dependency counseling, case management, and help with daily living.  The Westlake helps people successfully make the transition from homelessness into housing.
                  

What We Do

St. Martin’s Programs serve the special population of older homeless men and women who are vulnerable to the weather, young street predators, and illness. Our programs serve high needs households by having low barriers to entry.  We accept people who have special needs and no other place to go.

Our efforts are focused on providing basic survival and social services, as well as actively moving older homeless men and women into permanent homes.




THANK YOU to our sponsors!