Samaritan House

20 emergency beds, 3 Supported Living Units

Samaritan House has been in continual operation since 1989 providing emergency and temporary shelter for the homeless of Nanaimo.

Referrals are received from the Salvation Army, the Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance, the RCMP, after-hour and other programs under the Vancouver Island Health Authority such as Mental Health and Addiction Services, and the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital.

In September of 2007 Samaritan House became a shelter for women and families. Emergency shelter for men is now provided by the Salvation Army at the New Hope Centre. This change in the delivery of shelter services in Nanaimo affords greater safety for women and children and allows a larger segment of the population to access shelter services.

Besides a bed, a shower, and access to laundry facilities Samaritan House provides clients with a home-like environment, nourishing meals, caring professional staff, and referrals to community resources and programs. Operating Funding is provided by BC Housing and generous donations from churches and individuals. Infrastructure grants have been recieved from a variety of sources including BC Housing, the Vancouver Island Health Authority, and the City of Nanaimo.

Proposed Improvements

In May of 2009 ICCS applied to BC Housing for funding to build a storage and meeting building behind the shelter which will also provide a sheltered smoking area. To view drawings of the new building and read more details visit the proposal page here. In January of 2010, with revised plans, progress continues on this much needed addition to the program. Since BC Housing funds went to more urgent projects elsewhere in the province, funding for this project will come from reserves and donations.

Contact

355 Nicol Street
Nanaimo, BC
V9R 5C5
Tel: (250) 753 - 1474
Fax: (250) 753 - 5586