Emergency Shelter for Families

Keeping Families Together in Times of Crisis

At Greater Lafayette Family Shelter, our core program is emergency shelter for families experiencing homelessness. Unlike many shelters where families may be separated, we believe families belong together, whether that’s a single parent with children, grandparents helping to raise grandchildren, or same-sex and unmarried couples with kids.

We are the only local emergency shelter dedicated solely to families, offering a safe, supportive, and inclusive place to regroup and rebuild.

What We Provide

Private Rooms: Families have their own room that can accommodate up to six people.

Community Living: Kitchens, living areas, and play spaces are shared, building connection and support among families.

Case Management: Each family is paired with a shelter case manager who helps remove barriers, set goals, and connect to resources.

Housing Support: Families also work with LTHC Homeless Services to secure permanent housing.

Family-Centered Approach: We accept multigenerational families and diverse family structures without discrimination.

How it Works

Low-Barrier Access: Our shelter welcomes families without extensive requirements. We do conduct background checks to ensure the safety of all children in the building.

Stability with Accountability: Families work on a 30-day housing plan, renewed every month. Our goal is for most families to transition to stable housing within 90 days. Extensions are available as long as families continue working toward their goals.

Expanded Capacity: We maintain five shelter rooms onsite and also partner with other agencies to sublet additional units, giving families more time and flexibility as they transition to housing.

Beyond Shelter: Support doesn’t end at move-out. We continue offering referrals and check-ins to help families maintain stability after securing housing.

Why it Matters

Homelessness often forces families to make impossible choices, splitting up to find beds in different shelters, living in cars, or sleeping in places not meant for habitation. At GLFS, we change that story by:

  • Keeping families together

  • Helping parents avoid foster care placement for their children

  • Connecting families to housing and community services

  • Providing dignity, safety, and hope during their hardest moments