Q: Do you have space available?
A: Please call our on-call number at +1 (570) 439-9383 to ask if beds are available, as availability changes frequently.

Q: Can you help me get out safely?
A: Yes. We provide transportation to the shelter when possible. If not, we contact local authorities to help safely transport you from unsafe situations.

Q: Is there help for my kids or pets?
A: Unfortunately, we cannot accept pets, as allergies are among our highest concerns. However, we do accept service animals with proper documentation. All children are welcome at our facility.

Q: What are your hours for intake?
A: Our operating hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and intake hours are 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Q: How safe is the shelter?
A: We have a 24/7 security system that allows remote monitoring of the shelter at all times. In addition, one staff member is on call every night for true emergencies.

Q: Are my personal belongings safe?
A: Each person receives a secure locker for personal items. However, office personnel reserve the right to search any items brought onto shelter property at any time, with or without cause.

Q: Are drug or alcohol tests conducted?
A: Yes. We conduct drug and alcohol testing because we believe that the first step toward personal responsibility is maintaining a drug- and alcohol-free environment for all guests.

Q: Is attendance at religious services required?
A: No. We offer an optional Bible Study, but participation is entirely at your discretion.

Q: What about my privacy?
A: We use a secure computer system that is consistently monitored for vulnerabilities. All staff members are vetted for compliance with our internal Privacy Code of Conduct.

Q: What are the sleeping arrangements like?
A: We offer single beds in dormitory-style rooms with up to 10 bunk beds in both the female and male dorms. We also have two family rooms available for single-family use, each with 4 to 6 beds depending on family size.

Q: Can I use the showers?
A: Showers are available to registered guests currently staying at the shelter. On a case-by-case basis and at the Director’s discretion, showers may be made available to individuals for special circumstances, such as preparing for a job interview.

Q: Are meals provided?
A: We provide supplies that allow guests to prepare their own food. We also ask each guest to participate in a shared meal by helping prepare food for everyone. Guests are assigned days to assist with meal preparation.

Q: How long can I stay?
A: Each guest begins with a 30-day participation period. This allows staff and individuals to work together on goals to help guests get back on their feet.

Q: Do you offer assistance with finding housing?
A: Yes. Every guest meets with a case manager once a week to receive tools and resources for finding permanent housing.

Q: Do you offer assistance with finding employment?
A: Yes. Case managers work weekly with guests to provide resources and support for finding permanent employment.

Q: What about my health needs?
A: During intake, we collect medical information related to your primary care provider and other relevant health details to assist with your care. We are also in the process of building an on-site medical office to provide limited healthcare services.

Q: Do I need an ID?
A: No. During intake, we will gather the necessary information to verify your identity and help you obtain proper documentation or replace lost or misplaced IDs.

Q: What are the rules regarding children?
A: All children under 18 must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or legal guardian at all times while on shelter property.

Q: What about my car?
A: All vehicles must be registered, inspected, and in running condition to remain on the property. Vehicles are also subject to the search and seizure policies of the Tioga County Homeless Initiative.

Q: Are there accommodations for disabilities?
A: Yes. Our new facility is ADA-compliant with local, state, and federal codes to ensure accessibility for all guests. Guests with special needs are encouraged to request referrals to appropriate care providers.

Q: Do you offer substance abuse counseling?
A: Not directly, but we provide referrals to local substance abuse treatment providers.

Q: How do I handle medication?
A: Depending on the individual and the type of medication, some medications may be stored in a secure medication locker in the office.

Q: Do you have resources for victims of domestic violence?
A: Yes. We work with a local domestic abuse organization within Tioga County and make referrals as needed.

Q: What kind of meals are served?
A: All food is prepared daily. During intake, we collect dietary restriction information, and those restrictions are considered when planning meals. We strive to ensure that meal options are available to meet guests’ needs.

Q: Do I have to share what led to my homelessness?
A: No, but sharing this information can help us better understand your situation and guide you toward self-sufficiency.

Q: Will my criminal record prevent me from getting help?
A: Only registered sex offenders are restricted, as we are a family-based shelter and must protect all residents’ safety.

Q: What if I have an eviction history?
A: We accept all individuals, regardless of eviction history.

Q: How do I manage hygiene if I have special needs?
A: Showers are handicap-accessible, and we can provide referrals to local personal care providers if needed.

Q: How are disagreements and conflicts handled?
A: All disagreements and conflicts are addressed as discreetly and respectfully as possible to maintain a peaceful environment.