Ottawa Shelter
201 E. Jackson 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

At Illinois Valley PADS, we are breaking the cycle of homelessness by providing safe shelter, nutritious meals, supportive services, and transformative programs for individuals and families. Through resources, advocacy, and compassionate care, we empower our clients to rebuild their lives.

Join us in our mission to create lasting change and uplift our community—because together, we can turn hope into action

Transforming Lives Through Caring Support

We are dedicated to meeting immediate needs while building pathways to a brighter future. Through compassionate care and essential services, our programs make a meaningful difference for individuals and families in our communities.
Bunk bed with checkered bedding in dorm room.

Shelter Services

A safe place to stay is just the beginning. We provide beds, meals, showers, laundry, and a secure environment where individuals and families can rest, reset, and begin again.
Infographic displaying community impact measurements.

How We Make a Difference

We go beyond immediate needs by helping clients build a better future through:

  • Personalized case management and service plans

  • Job readiness and employment referrals

  • Housing assistance and stabilization

  • Access to healthcare and mental health services

  • Life skills classes and support groups

Mobile healthcare van parked outside building

Community Outreach

We partner with local organizations, businesses, and volunteers to expand resources, raise awareness, and strengthen our community’s response to homelessness. Your support makes this work possible. Whether you give, volunteer, or advocate, you help transform lives every day.

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.
578 Individuals Served
Last year, we provided safe shelter, warmth, and care to 578 individuals in our community—including 42 families with 87 children.
90,000+ Meals Provided
With the support of our community, we served more than 90,000 meals—ensuring no one in our care went hungry.
Open hands with donation text
159 Lives Stabilized
Individuals and families in our program secured stable housing and began rebuilding their lives.
200+ Volunteers
Dedicated volunteers gave their time and compassion, making our mission possible every day.

Your Support Changes Lives

When you support IV PADS, you do more than give—you provide hope, stability, and a path forward for individuals and families in need.

Every donation, volunteer hour, and act of generosity helps deliver essential services like shelter, meals, and life-changing programs. Together, we’re not just meeting immediate needs—we’re building stronger futures and a more compassionate community.

Be the Difference

Your support fuels transformation.
Give. Volunteer. Advocate.
Help us create lasting change—one life at a time.

Find Shelter

Ottawa Shelter

Location
201 E. Jackson St..
Ottawa, IL 61350
About
Ottawa PADS is a 90-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 76-bed homeless shelter that provides shelter, meals, and other services to those in need. Operates from August 1 to May 31 each year.
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

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)
Smiling woman in a boutique clothing store.

Bonnie, one of our wonderful volunteers at Lily PADS Resale Boutique in Peru, shared:
“I have been volunteering at Lily PADS since 2018 and usually come in two days a week. I work with the jewelry. I really enjoy pricing and making sure we have a good variety, and I love filling the display cases so they look organized and appealing to shoppers. I also love working with all the great people at Peru Lily PADS and helping our customers.”

We’re so grateful for dedicated volunteers like Bonnie, whose care and creativity make Lily PADS such a special place to shop while supporting IV PADS’ mission.