Ottawa Shelter
1120 Canal St.
Ottawa, IL 61350
(815) 433-1292
Peru Shelter
1320 Menards Dr.
Peru, IL 61354
(815) 224-3047
Hands holding a blue paper house symbolizing support.

Help for Today
Hope for Tomorrow

Illinois Valley PADS is breaking the cycle of homelessness by providing transformative programs, resources, and advocacy for individuals and families. Join us in our mission to create lasting change and uplift our community.

Transforming Lives Through Caring Support

Our organization is dedicated to providing essential services to those in need. Explore our key programs that make a difference in our community.
Bunk bed with checkered bedding in dorm room.

Shelter Services

Providing a bed, meals, security, laundry, showers, and care to the homeless individuals and families in our communities.
Infographic displaying community impact measurements.

How We Make a Difference

Providing case management with individual service plans, educational opportunities, employment referrals, housing assistance, health care referrals, mental health referrals, and support groups.
Community Outreach

Community Outreach

Building partnerships to support and uplift those facing challenges.

Help For Today

Hope For Tomorrow

From the moment we receive a knock on the door or a call for help, every effort is made to connect those in need with essential services to better assist them every step of the way.
500+ Individuals
We have provided safe shelter to over 500 people, offering warmth and care.
90,000+ Meals
Thanks to the community support, we provide three meals a day to those in need during our days of operation.
Hands holding wooden 'donate' letters, encouraging support.
300+ Families
Our program has helped over 300 families find stable housing and rebuild their lives.
200 Volunteers
Dedicated volunteers donated countless hours, making a huge difference in our service to those in our program.

Your Support Makes a Difference in Our Community

By supporting our organization, you help provide essential services to those in need. Your contribution of time, supplies, or finances not only changes lives but also strengthens our community, creating a brighter future for everyone.

Find Shelter

Ottawa Shelter

Location
1120 Canal St.
Ottawa, IL 61350
About
Ottawa PADS is a 55-bed homeless shelter that provides shelter, meals, and other services to those in need. Operates from August 1 to May 31 each year.

Peru Shelter

Location
1320 Menards Dr.
Peru, IL 61354
About
Peru PADS is a 74-bed homeless shelter that provides shelter, meals, and other services to those in need. Operates from August 1 to May 31 each year.

Find Stores

Peru Store

Location

4471 Progress Blvd., Peru, IL

Hours of Operation

Retail shopping
Mon-Sat: 9AM-5PM

Donations Center
Mon-Sat: 9AM-4PM

Ottawa Store

Location

411 E Stevenson Road, Ottawa, IL 61350

Hours of Operation

Retail shopping
Mon-Sat: 9AM-5PM

Donations Center
Mon-Sat: 9AM-4PM

People enjoying outdoor gathering at community event. Two women standing by truck with boxes
Smiling man and child sitting together indoors
Together, we can create lasting change in the lives of those facing homelessness in our community.
Be a Part of Our Journey
Join Us TodayMan grilling meat outdoors with mask on.
People holding signs about overcoming homelessness. People standing near Illinois Valley PADS Shelter sign.

FAQs

Find answers to your questions about hours, requirements, rules, and volunteering opportunities.
Still have questions?
We're here to help!

What Our Volunteers Say

Smiling woman in glasses at restaurant
With a lifelong background in Christian ministry and outreach—including overseas work in Belgium and programs for homeless women and children in Aurora, Memphis, and Illinois Valley PADS—I bring both heart and experience to my role at PADS. I've also served as a Business Administrator and Financial Secretary for the past 17 years. Now semi-retired, it's a joy to return and be part of this mission once again
Person smiling while holding cup in kitchen.
"I started volunteering at Ottawa PADS near the end of 2024, and I haven't stopped since. There's a sense of family and hope created within this vast group of individuals that PADS opens for those less fortunate, with an absolutely extraordinary staff. The depth at which they tend to people in their deepest need is truly inspiring. Being a part of that, and fostering a deeper connection with others, has enriched a greater sense of purpose. I'm aware giving one's time is a delicate act, but is well worth it, as doing so can create something beautiful." -- Evane Bartelmey (Ottawa PADS Volunteer)