Hope Academy Foundation NFP, 18460 Cregier Ln, Lansing, IL 60438, US

South Suburban PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) is an interfaith program that provides overnight shelters and supportive services for homeless persons in the south suburbs. The keys to PADS' mission are compassion, hospitality and dignity. PADS celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2010. The homeless organization provides services to help homeless individuals and families get off the streets, including volunteer support and supportive service, substance abuse referrals, free medical attention, employment services, homeless prevention, readiness and job training, housing assistance, financial management and other life skills training. South Suburban PADS works with a network of churches and religious organizations that provide their facilities for overnight shelters on different nights of the week during fall and winter. The designated Oak Lawn shelter is the Oak Lawn Community Church (Presbyterian) at 9000 S. Ridgeland Ave, that is open from Oct. 1 - April 30. Shelters in the PADS network are designated for men, women and women and children. Overnight shelters are in operation from Oct. 1 - April 30. Supportive services to homeless individuals and families are available year-round. South Suburban PADS, either through its network of churches or at its main office in Chicago Heights, offers numerous volunteer opportunities throughout the year. Interim housing is available at Chicago Heights. Individuals are required to participate in a training program.