PADS of Lake County is a community-based organization that provides trauma-informed support, resources, and shelter to individuals and families experiencing a housing crisis. Since 1972, PADS has faithfully provided immediate, critical services to the neediest among us - individuals who are experiencing homelessness in Lake County. PADS is the first point of contact and the ONLY emergency shelter for the homeless in Lake County.
Doing Our Part
First Presbyterian hosts a PADS shelter on Sunday evenings October-May. As in the past, FPCD will be responsible for one Sunday per month. We ask that each of you consider how you might be able to support this important ministry. Please use the link below to view the open volunteer spots and sign up for a few. Questions? Contact Dean Geers at dean.geers@gmail.com.
More About PADS
FPCD has for the past 9 years provided, in partnership with a number of other religious and community organizations, shelter and food to 40-50 Lake County homeless each Sunday evening from September through April. Due to COVID-19, PADS converted initially to a 24/7 Township shelter in Gurnee along with some guests occupying hotel rooms. More recently, the Gurnee facility became unworkable and by the middle of April, PADS had over 130 homeless staying in hotels; this is approximately double PADS’ normal numbers. Generous contributions, both in funds and food, along with some government funding have allowed PADS to continue to provide shelter and food. We continue to work with PADS to assist in their mission, which is even more critical in the current environment. To ensure the safety of our guests we have added a new air filtration system to help keep all our guests and volunteers as healthy as possible.
Feel free to contact Dean Geers (dean.geers@gmail.com), our lead coordinator, or Thom Cunningham if you have questions or wish to be involved.
