The Inn of the Good Shepherd (Sarnia) Inc

The Inn of the Good Shepherd (Sarnia) Inc is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to providing essential services with dignity to individuals experiencing poverty, homelessness, and food insecurity in Sarnia, Ontario. Operating since 1981, the organization serves the working poor, the unemployed, and the homeless, assisting thousands each year through a variety of programs.

History and Mission

Founded in 1981, The Inn of the Good Shepherd (Sarnia) Inc has a longstanding commitment to aiding vulnerable populations by offering food, shelter, and other critical necessities. Its mission is to provide these services with dignity to those in need, thereby empowering clients and strengthening the community through compassionate support[1][3].

Programs and Services

The organization offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to address the immediate and transitional needs of individuals and families facing hardship:

• The Haven: An emergency shelter specifically for youth aged 16 to 21, providing safe accommodation and support[3].
• Emergency Shelter: Temporary shelter and assistance for adults and families, including help in locating permanent housing. The Good Shepherd’s Lodge offers 30 emergency shelter beds and 2 private family rooms for residents, alongside services such as meals, laundry, showers, and housing search assistance[4].
• Rent/Utility Assistance: Financial aid for those facing eviction or utility shut-off notices, helping clients remain in stable housing[3].
• Genesis Program: Dispenses vouchers for clothing and small household items at no cost, assisting clients in managing basic needs[3].
• Food Bank: Provides a grocery-store style selection including dry goods, bakery items, refrigerated, and frozen foods, accessible every 21 days for registered clients[3].
• Soup Kitchen: Serves hot meals 365 days a year in a social and supportive environment[3].

Additionally, the Good Shepherd’s Lodge offers five transitional housing units that provide life skills education to support housing stability and retention for clients aged 22 and up[4].

Community Impact

Thousands of individuals rely on The Inn of the Good Shepherd annually, sustained largely through community generosity. The organization regularly publishes impact reports documenting their work and the positive change facilitated in the community[1].

Governance and Registration

The Inn of the Good Shepherd (Sarnia) Inc is a registered charity under the Canada Revenue Agency with the business registration number 131312092RR0001. It complies with all CRA requirements and operates transparently with a focus on accountable stewardship of resources[3].

Leadership

Myles Vanni serves as the Executive Director, overseeing the organization’s operations and strategic direction in its mission to assist those in need across Lambton County[1][4].

This entry summarizes the role and services of The Inn of the Good Shepherd (Sarnia) Inc as a vital charitable entity supporting vulnerable populations in Sarnia, Ontario, through emergency shelter, food security, and essential support programs.

[1] https://www.theinnsarnia.ca [2] https://www.instagram.com/theinnsarnia/ [3] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/the-inn-of-the-good-shepherd-sarnia-inc/ [4] https://211ontario.ca/service/71356631/the-inn-of-the-good-shepherd-good-shepherds-lodge/ [5] https://www.mapquest.com/ca/ontario/the-inn-of-the-good-shepherd-sarnia-inc-281756464