The city of Denver is considering approving a $5 million contract for transitional housing for people experiencing homelessness.
This is according to the agenda items discussed at the June 17 City Council meeting.
The city of Denver is considering approving a contract with the Housing Connector to assist 250 households with move-in financial assistance and rental subsidies to support the city’s All in Mile High initiative.
The contract will run through May 1, 2024, until May 31, 2026.
The housing connector provides one year of full rental and utility assistance, a stability fund, mitigation and risk, mediation services, and case management. Additionally, move-in kits will be available, including essential items like beds, pots and pans, a couch, a small table, basic linens, and hygiene items, according to the presentation.
“By connecting people with a home and providing them with rental assistance and supportive services to stay in their home, they are better able to deal with challenges that may have led to their homelessness, such as obtaining employment or substance abuse issues,” a document stated that was provided to the City Council.
Mayor Mike Johnston announced the initiative in July 2023, when it was first known as the “House1000.” After closing ten encampments in 2023, the Mayor announced the new goal of moving 2,000 homeless inside by Dec. 3, 2024, and renaming it the All in Mile High initiative, according to the city’s website.
The city recently had the first encampment resolution for 2024 where they moved 100 homeless individuals indoors and 60 of those received housing at the La Paz community, consisting of 60 units, including restrooms, showers, a kitchen, and gathering spaces.
The city’s 2023 Point in Time count shows that Denver had more than 1,400 homeless people unsheltered and living outdoors on Jan. 23, 2023, and over 4,000 homeless people in shelters, according to the city’s website.