Seeking Shelter?

The Lawrence Community Shelter offers a low-barrier adult shelter program that provides temporary emergency shelter for people experiencing homelessness. Priority is given to Douglas County residents. If a guest has recently moved to Douglas County for work, to be near family supports, or because they are enrolled in a local treatment program, then they may be eligible for services. To view frequently asked questions, click here.

UPDATE: Winter Shelter

In order to help meet the needs of our community, the Lawrence Community Shelter will be operating the winter emergency shelter and expanding services when the temperature or wind chill falls below 32°F. During cold weather, the maximum shelter capacity will be expanded to 140 beds and guests will not be required to exit during the day any time the outside temperature or wind chill falls below 32°F. Our organization is working with community partners to ensure that no one will be turned away from shelter this winter.

Night by Night Program

LCS offers up to 100 adult beds in our night by night program. Guests can check in any time between 7-10 PM to receive a bed. All guests must check out by 7 AM. All guests must abide by program guidelines and sign paperwork to certify that they are currently homeless and eligible for services. All guests are asked to abide by a code of conduct out of respect for others staying in the shelter. There are no requirements in regards to income or sobriety. However, the use of drugs or alcohol on LCS property is prohibited. Night by Night guests may sign up for appointments to meet with case managers during the day. To view frequently asked questions, click here.

Housing Program / Continuous Stay

There is no check in or check out time for individuals enrolled in the Housing Program at LCS, which provides an additional 25 beds. They will receive day services and case management to help connect them to permanent housing and care that meets their needs. The Housing Program prioritizes individuals utilizing assessment tools and a team review panel to identify those with exceptional needs. Partnering service providers can refer individuals that may be eligible for the Housing Program. Click here to make a referral.

Families with children under 18

LCS offers temporary emergency shelter for adults seeking shelter and works with community partners to connect families to alternative resources for shelter and housing assistance. As a large congregate shelter that often serves adults with complex trauma, children under 18 cannot be sheltered in our facility. In accordance with our mission, LCS advocates for solutions to homelessness that enable families with children to stay in central neighborhoods closer to their schools. Click here for children and family resources.

Pets

LCS is a pet-friendly shelter. New guests that have not sought services previously due to having a pet must sign a pet agreement and waiver of liability. Guests who use shelter programs cannot bring new pets if they are already receiving services unless the pet provides services for a disability. All dogs, cats, and ferrets aged 4 months and older must have current rabies vaccination as required by law. If the animal is not vaccinated as required, the guest will have 10 days to obtain proof of vaccination or the animal will not be allowed to return to shelter until documentation is provided. LCS may ask that a pet be removed if their behavior or health becomes a threat to the safety or well-being of other guests, volunteers, or staff. Night by Night guests must check out with their pets at 7 AM.

Accessibility

Individuals with wheelchairs or limited mobility may use the accessible entrance at the front door and will be assigned to an accessible bed reserved for people with limited mobility. If someone’s level of care exceeds our scope of services, LCS reserves the right to connect with other agencies to find appropriate placement.

Other Area Resources

Information about other resources in the area is available at Resources – Housing and Shelter and Resources – Children and Family.

Directions

The Lawrence Community Shelter is located at 3655 E. 25th Street, just south of 23rd Street and west of K-10 highway. The Shelter is accessible by Lawrence City Bus (Route 1) from downtown Lawrence, Monday-Saturday, from 6:00 am to 7:30 pm.