Executive Director Carol Alcorn, Client turned Volunteer Tim Martin, Program Manager Marissa Melau say a bittersweet goodbye. January 2019 In 2011, Tim Martin walked thru the doors of Ottawa Pads for the first of many, many times.  A clean-cut guy with Tourette’s and non-productive habits, Tim was prone to severe anxiety, self-medicating and was short (Read full story)

As a self-proclaimed ‘loner,’ Larry, now 66, took to a transient lifestyle since the time he was 14.  Although his parents provided a home and essentials, Larry didn’t feel loved by his parents or 5 siblings and never felt attached to them or his home. So at 14 he decided to hitchhike from his home (Read full story)

The day that Vermell, age 41, had to move into a shelter, she thought the moment was the lowest point in her life. As a single mother of 7 children ranging in age from 6 to 21 years, Vermell had already had to overcome enormous obstacles in her life. From being born to an addicted (Read full story)

A couple of years ago Brandon found himself in a tricky situation.  He had a diploma, experience in the U.S. Navy, and a job.  He also had a beautiful young daughter, Riley.  The difficulty in Brandon’s life was that he was going through a divorce.  His $10 per hour paycheck didn’t stretch far enough to (Read full story)