Ottawa Shelter
1120 Canal St.
Ottawa, IL 61350
(815) 433-1292
Peru Shelter
1320 Menards Dr.
Peru, IL 61354
(815) 224-3047

Success Stories

IV PADS has been granted the privilege of becoming one small part in a chapter of many lives over the years. This would not be possible without the courage and drive of every guest who knocks on our door to ask for help.

Let us introduce you to some of the clients who have worked their way back to self sufficiency.
Three people smiling in a kitchen setting.
“You are worth something and you can do it”
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)
Man in denim jacket and cap on porch.
Meet Larry – It’s Never Too Late to Find Contentment
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)
Man and girl smiling in a bedroom with toys.
Meet Brandon and Riley
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)
Person seated next to bed and nightstand with book.
Meet Vermell – From Nothing to Something
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)

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.

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.

FAQs

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