For over 40 years, The Salvation Army Lawson Ministries has provided vital encouragement for adults with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges, empowering individuals to build independence, confidence, and social connections through independent living and locally-based programs.

“At the heart of Lawson Ministries is a sense of belonging—creating a community where every individual, regardless of ability, can live with dignity and purpose,” says executive director Deanna Finch-Smith. “Through our diverse programs, Lawson Ministries supports approximately 80 individuals annually, helping them build independence, social skills, and confidence in their everyday lives.”

A Home and a Future

The Salvation Army’s residential space at 1590 Main Street West in Hamilton, Ontario, provides supportive living for 33 adults, where each resident has their own apartment while receiving tailored staff assistance, ranging from 24-hour care to help with budgeting and meal planning. Additional accommodations include group homes, intensive support homes, and long-term care assistance to meet diverse needs.

Kaitlin, a Lawson Ministries resident and program participant for 14 years, embraces her independence.

“I have my own space and privacy. I feel better because I have my own TV time and free time,” she says. “There are so many programs I’m part of, it’s hard to count.”

Through The Salvation Army’s Commuting Confidently program, Kaitlin has mastered public transit in Hamilton, giving her access to the city for shopping, medical appointments, and recreation.

Residential counsellor Kelly Ladniak has witnessed Kaitlin’s growth firsthand.

“She’s been given independence and the chance to be her own person and can do what she needs to make her life happier,” Kelly says. “It has been the greatest moment watching Kaitlin change throughout the years and become the young woman she is, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.”

Building Skills and Confidence

The Community Program Supports initiative provides opportunities for participants to develop life skills, socialize, and express creativity through activities like bowling, volunteer placements, music and art.

Cody, 25, has been part of Lawson Ministries since he was 18 when he moved into a Salvation Army residential group home south of Hamilton. He credits the staff’s guidance for helping him overcome run-ins with the legal system and motivating him to set new, life-changing goals.

“If I hadn’t gotten into that rough spot in jail and court, they wouldn’t have found out about who I was,” Cody says. “The Salvation Army wouldn’t have set me up with the team I have and the kind of support to realize that my goals can be achieved.”

Now, Cody is focused on completing his GED and becoming a youth pastor with The Salvation Army.

“I want to help younger people, and I want to tell them that violence is not a solution. I want to be a spokesperson and tell them that you can do whatever you want as long as you dream of it.”

He’s also a reliable and dedicated Salvation Army volunteer, supporting Lawson Ministries on World Autism Day and being a positive community role model.

Meeting Unique Needs

Individuals with developmental disabilities often face additional barriers related to mental health and social development. To help individuals overcome these obstacles, The Salvation Army has created transformational programming such as Specialized Supports which offers therapeutic care, personalized behavioural plans, and highly trained staff to ensure specialized, structured support.

The Supported Independent Living program assists with budgeting, meal preparation, and advocacy, helping individuals maintain safe and stable living arrangements.

SAFE Hub addresses an often-overlooked need by educating individuals about healthy relationships, sexuality, and abuse prevention, empowering them with self-advocacy skills.

The Paparella Innovative Art program is another example of how The Salvation Army nurtures talents. Participants have showcased their artwork in public exhibits and on professional journal covers, gaining confidence through creative expression.

Your Support Transforms Lives

Without Lawson Ministries, many of Hamilton’s most vulnerable individuals would lack essential services. Your donations help provide safety, dignity, and opportunity for those in need. Join us in building a more inclusive community. Visit www.lawsonministries.org to learn more.