Denver Mayor Mike Johnston’s administration is celebrating a significant milestone in their efforts to combat homelessness. Since taking office last year, the city has successfully moved 2,000 homeless individuals off the streets and into temporary shelters, surpassing the mayor’s initial goal of 1,000 people by the end of 2024 and achieving another 1,000 by the end of 2025.
Despite the success of the program, the cost remains unclear, with the city on track to spend $155 million between July 2023 and December 2024, $65 million more than initially estimated. The latest count shows an increase in the homeless population from 5,818 to 6,539, with only a slight decrease in unsheltered individuals.
The mayor’s office highlights the success of their approach by pointing to the record drop in unsheltered homelessness after just six months of work. The city has closed 18 large encampments and permanently banned camping on over 350 blocks downtown. Additionally, 83% of individuals brought to shelters have remained indoors, with 36% securing permanent housing.
However, a Denver Gazette investigation revealed that the metro Denver region has experienced a worsening homeless crisis, despite the city’s significant spending on homelessness initiatives. The city’s focus on emergency shelters and temporary transition services has been criticized, with only two out of every ten individuals finding long-term permanent housing.
In response to the growing crisis, the mayor’s office continues to work towards providing real solutions to homelessness, focusing on dignity, compassion, and long-term support for individuals in need. Members of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce have praised the mayor’s efforts in addressing safety concerns and offering essential resources to break the cycle of homelessness.
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