Denver is streamlining its migrant shelter operations, consolidating all but one hotel shelter as the city experiences a significant decrease in daily arrivals. This move marks the culmination of a 15-month, $63 million initiative aimed at providing temporary housing for new arrivals.
After this week, Denver will maintain just one hotel shelter for migrants entering the city, significantly reducing its previous capacity. Initially, the city operated up to seven hotels for migrant housing, but diminishing arrival numbers have prompted the closure of three shelters.
Mayor Mike Johnston's earlier commitment to maintaining three hotel shelters was revised as the city witnessed a sharp decline in daily arrivals. Recent figures indicate a decrease from 200-300 arrivals per day to around 60-50 individuals mainly from South American countries like Venezuela.
Denver's migrant housing initiative peaked in January, accommodating nearly 5,000 people. However, the current count stands at 730 individuals, indicating a substantial decrease in demand for temporary shelter.
The sole remaining hotel shelter, located in northwestern Denver, along with a church-congregated shelter, will continue to provide accommodations for migrants. Combined, these facilities can accommodate approximately 800 or more individuals if necessary. Additionally, the city offers "bridge housing" to support families transitioning from hotel rooms to more permanent living arrangements.
Authorities have been proactive in addressing potential encampment issues, recently dismantling a migrant camp near Elitch Gardens. As the amusement park prepares to reopen, efforts to clear the camp have been underway, with campers relocating upon receiving eviction notices.
Since December 2022, over 40,000 migrants have arrived in Denver, with roughly half opting to stay in city-funded hotel rooms. Those who choose to remain are granted a maximum stay of 14 days for individuals and 42 days for families. During this time, migrants receive assistance in finding more permanent housing solutions, often through collaborations with nonprofit organizations.
Denver Human Services remains committed to supporting migrants beyond shelter provision, assisting over 1,400 individuals in obtaining work authorization within the past two months.
By consolidating shelter operations, Denver anticipates significant cost savings in staffing and security expenses. This strategic shift towards long-term sustainability reflects the city's commitment to efficient resource utilization amid changing migration patterns.
The decision to consolidate comes on the heels of a recent scramble to accommodate families with children facing eviction from hotel shelters. With a winter storm approaching, Denver opened a city building in Civic Center Park to provide emergency shelter for displaced families, highlighting the city's proactive approach to addressing evolving needs.
In conclusion, Denver's move to consolidate migrant hotel shelters underscores a strategic response to shifting migration dynamics. As the city continues to navigate the complexities of migration management, its focus remains on providing efficient and sustainable support for migrants in need.
Source / Photo: Colorado Sun