Victoria - South Island

Sooke Shelter Society provides 33 Supportive Housing units and a Hub Resource for those experiencing homelessness in the Greater Sooke Area. There are an additional 6 Shelter Beds available for Emergency Weather Response only.

Directly engaging with those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness through an outreach program which bridges the gaps and creates awareness of services available to them. The primary focus is on those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. SSS staff provide assessment of individual needs and assistance in supporting clients to achieve their personal goals. SSS provides supportive housing services that respond to vulnerable people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with the goal of acquiring and maintaining stable, long-term housing.

The society offers supportive housing and rental assistance to help residents in the community who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Vital services include access to physical and mental health programs, life skills training, employment and education services, food security, and referrals to community programs.

Outreach/Case Management Supports for those experiencing homelessness:
The outreach program is designed to help anyone in the community who is in need of prevention of homelessness support and/or current homelessness support. Services include advocating and offering support services to clients in the community with whatever they may need to improve their current situation.
Case Management refers to a collaborative and planned person-centred approach, ensuring that a person who experiences homelessness or is at risk of homelessness gets the services and support they need to move forward with their lives. An intake is completed, risks are identified, goals are established, and plans are put in place. Individuals and families are supported from the moment they are identified as (potentially) homeless or at risk of homelessness right through to the solution stage, and then after, a continuum of care is provided if there is a need for continued support.

Outreach/Case Management Services Provided:

• All first points of contact understand homelessness risk indicators
• All first points of contact have the ability to provide families with resource information
• At-risk families have access to someone who can help them navigate the system and get assistance.
• Development of a housing plan to better the client’s housing situation
• Completion of relevant housing applications or forms
• Provision of appropriate referrals and resources for meeting immediate needs (food, clothing, income, shelter)
• Connection of client with other community agencies and services
• Follow-up assistance in maintaining their current housing
• Accompaniment to appointments, when appropriate
• Basic Needs such as Food, Tents, Sleeping Bags, Water, Laundry, Showers, Bus Tickets

Prevention of Homelessness Program Services Provided:

• Housing Set Up: damage deposit, first/last month's rent, furniture, kitchen, basic groceries and supplies at move-in.
• Prevention and Shelter Diversion: Utilities and market rent assistance
• Basic Needs: Food, Storage, Clothing, Bus Tickets

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