Illinois Valley Public Action to Deliver Shelter, a non-profit organization addressing homelessness and housing insecurity in Ottawa and Peru, provided supportive services in record numbers in the 2023-2024 season, the agency reported.
“I can say without hesitation that homelessness can happen to anyone,” said Carol Alcorn, executive director of IV PADS. “We have a growing population of people experiencing homelessness right here in our community. They range in age from children to the elderly and they come from all walks of life.”
Homelessness is a traumatic experience that can have long-lasting effects on physical and mental health. Nearly 80% of unhoused individuals face some type of mental health challenge. The shelter works to alleviate their distress, Alcorn said.
In addition to shelter and meals, IV PADS personalized case management/service plans provide a safe space to discuss goals, offer needed resources and connections to supportive services to help individuals rebuild their lives and achieve employment, stable housing and independence, the agency said.
