Finding yourself without a home can be an overwhelming and distressing experience. Thankfully, Trinidad and Tobago offers several resources to help individuals in need of shelter and support. Here’s a guide to some of the top homeless shelters and assistance programs in the country that can provide immediate relief and ongoing support.
1. Ministry of Social Development and Family Services – Social Displacement Unit
Website: Ministry of Social Development and Family Services
Phone: (868) 624-2148
Location: Piarco, Trinidad
Phone: (868) 624-2148
Location: Piarco, Trinidad
The Social Displacement Unit (SDU) of the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services is dedicated to addressing social displacement. Established in 1999, the SDU provides comprehensive services including social work, counseling, referrals, and the establishment of care facilities. Their programs cover a range of needs from temporary shelter and stabilization to long-term rehabilitation and independent living assistance.
Services Include:
- Engagement: Outreach and information on available services.
- Temporary Care: Immediate shelter and assessment.
- Primary Care: Specialized treatment and rehabilitation.
- Advanced Care: Long-term support and independent living solutions.
Other NGOs to consider:
2. Court Shamrock – Home for the Socially Displaced
Location: San Fernando
Phone: (868) 653-6354
Court Shamrock provides a safe haven for socially displaced individuals in San Fernando. The shelter offers essential services to help individuals stabilize their lives and work towards self-sufficiency. Their focus is on providing immediate shelter and support for those in crisis.
3. San Fernando Centre for Displaced Persons
Location: San Fernando
Phone: (868) 909-205-6354
Phone: (868) 909-205-6354
Open 24 hours, the San Fernando Centre for Displaced Persons offers round-the-clock support for individuals in need. They provide temporary accommodation, meals, and assistance to help people transition from homelessness to a more stable situation.
4. Homeless Assistance Office
Location: Port of Spain
Phone: (868) 680-2040
The Homeless Assistance Office focuses on providing immediate help and connecting individuals to various support services. They offer guidance and referrals to other shelters and assistance programs throughout Port of Spain.
Phone: (868) 680-2040
The Homeless Assistance Office focuses on providing immediate help and connecting individuals to various support services. They offer guidance and referrals to other shelters and assistance programs throughout Port of Spain.
5. Habitat for Humanity® Trinidad & Tobago
Location: Trinidad
Phone: (868) 675-1222
Phone: (868) 675-1222
Habitat for Humanity is known for its efforts to provide low-income housing and support. They offer a range of services from home construction to financial assistance for those in need of stable housing. Their focus is on long-term solutions to prevent homelessness.
6. Jai Lakshmi Children Home
Location: Longdenville
Jai Lakshmi Children Home provides shelter and support to displaced individuals, including children and families. Their mission is to offer a peaceful and supportive environment for those facing homelessness.
7. Society of St. Vincent De Paul Trinidad and Tobago
Location: Port of Spain
Phone: (868) 625-3562
Phone: (868) 625-3562
The Society of St. Vincent De Paul offers various forms of assistance, including emergency shelter, food, and financial aid. Their services aim to support individuals and families in crisis and help them achieve stability.
8. HELP Food Stuff
Location: Diamond
Phone: (868) 750-7544
Phone: (868) 750-7544
HELP Food Stuff provides critical assistance in the form of food and basic supplies. They focus on helping those who are homeless or in severe need, ensuring that individuals receive nourishment and support during difficult times.
How to Seek Help
If you or someone you know is facing homelessness, reaching out to these shelters and assistance programs can provide immediate relief and support. Each organization has its own set of services, so contacting them directly can help you find the right resources based on your specific needs.
By connecting with these shelters and support services, you can access essential care and begin the journey toward stability and recovery.
