Lancaster Community Shelter

As the only shelter of its kind for those who are homeless in the Antelope Valley, Lancaster Community Shelter has provided essential services to men, women and families since it opened in 1989. The program offers 30 days of emergency shelter or up to six months of transitional shelter for clients committed to working toward changing their lives. During the cold desert winter, additional beds and motel vouchers are also provided to keep the homeless off the streets at night.

The program uses a comprehensive approach to help clients. Because homelessness is often the result of diverse circumstances, including mental illness, emotional or psychological issues, lack of familial or community support, and unemployment, Catholic Charities strives to find long-term solutions to these challenges. Through life-skills workshops, support groups, and referrals to outside services, Lancaster Shelter's professional staff help individuals and families stop the cycle of homelessness.

The shelter recently added 14 transitional apartments for families. These 800-square feet apartments provide temporary housing for families on their way to independence and self-reliance.