The Emergency Shelter is at the core of St. Elizabeth’s overall programs.  It provides emergency housing and meals to homeless adults for up to 30 days, along with mail, phone and laundry services.  Three separate dormitories hold 22 beds for men, six for women and four for a family, along with a communal dining room, small library and television room.  During their stay, shelter guests work together with case management staff to directly address the problems that led to their becoming homeless and to begin rebuilding the self-esteem necessary to regain control of their lives. 

Staff also makes referrals for guests, as appropriate, for medical care, employment, housing, benefits and other services offered by partnering human-service and governmental agencies.  In return, guests must maintain sobriety, good behavior and willingness to participate in daily chores.  During 2007, 43 percent of shelter guests left to move into permanent housing within their 30-day stay limit.