In response to an audit that criticized the city’s shelter system, the Denver Department of Housing Stability (HOST) said that many of the recommended changes are already underway. Denver’s approach to homelessness has to be improved in a few areas, according to an audit published by the Auditor’s Office. However, HOST claims that the report ignores important advancements that have already been accomplished. Through their statement at the audit committee hearing, HOST leadership argues that a strong set of strategies for an efficient shelter system are part of their current strategic work plan and have been implemented since the spring.
More than 2,150 people were assisted indoors, and more than 800 people were placed in permanent housing, according to the City and County of Denver’s All in Mile High program. In an effort to decrease unsheltered homelessness, more than 350 city blocks have been closed to camping, which complements these advancements. Despite the fact that the audit revealed a number of suggestions, HOST contends that it is a serious error that progress already made—such as the installation of safety measures in All in Mile High sites—has not been acknowledged.
Improvements to shelter services provider contracts scheduled for 2025 are among the additional specifics disclosed by HOST. Notable modifications cover areas like as safety measures, grievance procedures, and consumer input. These modifications, which are the result of discussions that were started earlier this year, include stringent guidelines for provider transparency and accountability. One of the steps taken to measure the experiences of those using these programs is the installation of survey kiosks at All in Mile High locations.
After the disturbing events at the DoubleTree shelter last spring, HOST has accelerated efforts to focus on safety and security issues. According to the City and County of Denver, the measures, which include “management, staffing, physical enhancements, badging system, security, police presence, and case management,” make up a seven-point action plan that aims to avert catastrophes in the future. With almost 1,600 people relocated indoors from unsheltered conditions and tent encampments permanently destroyed over large urban lengths, HOST argues that the audit fails to adequately capture the substantial impact of the All in Mile High unsheltered homelessness project on the community.
The U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness has acknowledged HOST’s strategy as a best practice for encampment response, garnering widespread attention. This praise is supported by new data from the Metro Denver Homeless Initiative, which shows that unsheltered homelessness in Denver has decreased by 11%, the largest decline in the city’s history. HOST does, however, embrace the audit’s conclusions and agrees that continuous enhancements are essential to guaranteeing the safety and well-being of Denver’s most vulnerable citizens.
Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!
Leave a Reply