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OHM has an urgent need for volunteers who are able to help with cleaning and maintenance. This is a great one-time or ongoing opportunity for groups and families. To inquire, call Dawn at (360)737-0300 or click here!
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New Shelter
Our Story
OHM Family Shelter began in 1985 with a small group of individuals who met for Bible studies at Esther Short Park here in Vancouver, Washington. During meetings, the group became increasingly aware of the homeless population and was especially touched by the number of mothers they met who slept in cars with their children. Soon, they began providing food and clothing to those they met, and set out to explore deeper needs of the homeless population. The most frequent requests were for diapers and food for the children. According to Joanne Kendall, one of OHM's founders, many of the people they spoke to said that if they could just settle long enough to get their thoughts together and have warmth, food, and clothing, they could work on a plan to solve their homelessness. In January, 1989, the original shelter building opened its doors in a leased portion of a large boarding house that stood on what is now our parking lot. The boarding house provided eight rooms for up to twenty five people. During the first two years, much was learned about the complex needs of people in homeless situations. Eventually, the shelter program evolved to include case management, professional counseling, daycare, work development, transitional support, and a large array of community networks geared toward meeting needs common among homeless populations.
Today's 28,000 square foot shelter building was constructed in 1996 from the generous material and labor contributions of our community. The shelter consists of 31 junior studio apartments with full bathrooms and a kitchenette. Because of the generosity of our community, OHM now provides shelter and services for up to 107 individuals every night, HALF OF WHOM ARE CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 17!
The national cost average for operating a family shelter exceeds $60.00 per bed each night. With the help of our faithful volunteers and the requirement that residents be involved in shelter maintenance through our Giving Back program, OHM operated a well-maintained shelter at a cost of only $14.36 per bed per night last year!
You are invited contact us for further information about our program. Individual or group tours may be scheduled if you would like a first-hand look at the work we do and the difference we make!
Please contact OHM at (360)737-0300 or email ohm.pamelaschram@comcast.net
THANK YOU FOR CARING!
How It All Began
Every great mission starts with a great story!