Who We Are
Siloam Laundry Service is a new way of doing laundry.
Siloam Laundry Service (SLS) was established as part of Siloam Mission’s Building Futures program. Building Futures is the vocational work program at Siloam, and is designed for individuals using Siloam services who require help finding employment.
Prior to setting up SLS, Siloam outsourced laundry service to another company. By establishing SLS as a social enterprise, we address our laundry needs in-house while creating accessible, dignified employment opportunities for our community, and generate revenue that can be directed towards supporting programs and services within Siloam Mission.
Creating jobs for residents of Winnipeg’s emergency homeless shelters starts with providing opportunities to those who have major barriers to finding and maintaining employment. Our training staff brings years of commercial laundry experience to provide expert hands-on training for each of our employees. Skills in specialized care for stain removal, inventory management, garment treatment, and pest control provide valuable workplace skill building and income but also build confidence, self-sufficiency, and routine.
Stories of our staff restoring their lives through their own agency and determination are endless. Choosing Siloam Laundry Service as your laundry provider means taking an active part in transforming lives and contributing to pathways out of homelessness.
What Is a Social Enterprise?
A social enterprise is a business that operates for the purpose of social good and community building. At Siloam Laundry Service, we create accessible job opportunities for people exiting homelessness. By operating within Siloam Mission’s greater suite of programming, all revenue goes back into the registered charity’s budget to cover operating costs.
Our core objective revolves around providing inclusive employment prospects for individuals transitioning out of homelessness. Being embedded within the comprehensive spectrum of initiatives offered by Siloam Mission, allows us to ensure that every dollar earned is reinvested into the organization and the people who rely on us for shelter, food, clothing, community, and much more.
I was hoping for a bed, they gave me a bed and meals. I was looking for help finding a job, and they gave me a job. And it wasn’t just a job, they wanted to make it a career for me. They’re constantly giving me new challenges. the fact that so many people have been my cheerleaders…that means a lot, to be told we have faith in you, we trust you, and we know what you want, and we’re working hard to help you get it.
Neil, Laundry staff since 2019
Working for the social enterprise basically keeps me alive. The wages pay for my food and rent. As a former resident of Siloam Mission’s emergency shelter, providing laundry services to the shelter residents gives me a sense of purpose because I know what a difference it makes to be able to sleep on clean, warm bedding everyday. I enjoy working with the other laundry staff who are now my friends.
Ty, Laundry staff since 2021
In the homeless community, we all climb different mountains. Even when we have reached the summit of being housed, homelessness will always be a part of us. Part of my experience was developing a fixation on health. My work at Siloam Laundry Services enables me to afford to take better care of myself. Certainly, must not forget to mention that Siloam Laundry Services is a social enterprise that was created by Siloam Mission. In addition, being housed through Siloam contributes to a feeling of independence, fulfillment, and self-actualization. I'm grateful to have landed at such a nurturing place. Siloam Mission, you helped me get back on track again!
Charles, Laundry staff since 2019
