HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 12/06/2014 - HOMELESSNESS IN FORT COLLINSDATE:
STAFF:
December 6, 2014
Beth Sowder, Interim Director of Social Sustainability
Bruce Hendee, Chief Sustainability Officer
WORK SESSION ITEM
City Council
SUBJECT FOR DISCUSSION
Homelessness in Fort Collins.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this work session item is to provide City Council with an update of actions, programs, and
processes to address the issue of homelessness in Fort Collins. This item includes the current state of
homelessness, best practices proven to address homelessness, what other communities are doing to address
homelessness, the role of the City as it relates to homelessness, and potential recommendations or options for
Council consideration. Historically and currently, the City has pursued the policy of fund, facilitate, and convene
without entering into direct provision of services.
GENERAL DIRECTION SOUGHT AND SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED
1. Does Council agree that the current City role should continue at the same level of funding, facilitating, and
convening?
2. Would Council like to see additional services provided by the City?
3. Does Council need additional information or have any suggestions for changes?
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
Fort Collins is not alone in its efforts to address homelessness. Nationally, over 600,000 people are experiencing
homelessness; 18% are considered chronically homeless; 9% veterans; 23% under 18. The number has declined
9% since 2009.
In Denver, almost 6,000 people are experiencing homelessness; 36% women; 43% families; 24% are considered
newly homeless. Anecdotal information (Denver Post and Fort Collins Rescue Mission) indicates a rise in
Colorado due to marijuana legalization, desire to live in Colorado, and good job market.
Many communities conduct a “point-in-time” (PIT) count each year to get an idea of how many people are
experiencing homelessness in their community. Fort Collins conducted both a winter and summer count in 2014.
Winter PIT Summer PIT
289 individuals 438 individuals
33% families 8% families; 9% travelers
5% veterans 8% veterans
16% chronically homeless 31% chronically homeless
To better understand the terms used when discussing homelessness, a few definitions are:
Chronic Homelessness - Continually homeless for a year or more; or at least four episodes of homelessness in
the past three years.
Situational Homelessness - Something happened to cause their homelessness (sickness, loss of job, divorce,
etc.).
December 6, 2014 Page 2
Transient - Not interested in housing; may be traveling through town or prefer camping.
In 2013, the Social Sustainability Department conducted a Gaps Analysis, and it found some gaps related to
homelessness in Fort Collins. The gaps included:
Gaps in the continuum of housing
Needs for homeless youth and families
Previously incarcerated people have few choices
People with pets have few choices
Couples or other familial status have difficulties
Some projects currently in the works are specific to filling the gaps in the continuum of housing. This includes
permanent supportive housing. However, there is still a lack of affordable housing for people in the lowest income
levels and very little transitional opportunities available creating barriers to accessing housing.
The National Alliance to End Homelessness has identified the minimum requirements for an effective permanent
solution to prevent and end homelessness. All items require participation from every section of the community.
These requirements include:
Plan - Set of strategies focused on ending homelessness with a wide range of players to make funding
and implementation commitments to these strategies. In Fort Collins, Homeward 2020 is the keeper of
the 10 year plan.
Data - Homelessness Management Information System (HMIS). This system can be utilized to assess
how long people are homeless, what their needs are, what the causes of homelessness are, how people
interact with mainstream systems of care, effectiveness of interventions, and the number of homeless.
Emergency Prevention - Emergency homelessness prevention programs including rent/mortgage/utility
assistance, case management, landlord/lender intervention, and other strategies to prevent eviction and
homelessness.
Systems Prevention - Mainstream programs (mental health, substance abuse, TANF, child welfare, etc.)
that provide services to low-income people and assess their housing needs. Placement in stable housing
for people released from public institutions.
Outreach - Engagement system designed to reduce barriers and encourage appropriate housing linked
with appropriate services.
Shorten Homelessness - Shelters and transitional housing system to reduce or minimize length of time
people remain homeless.
Rapid Re-Housing - Skilled housing search and housing placement services available to rapidly re-house
all people losing their housing or homeless who want permanent housing.
Services - When people are re-housed, they have rapid access to funded services and programs that
provide needed services.
Permanent Housing - Sufficient supply of permanent supportive housing to meet the needs of all
chronically homeless. Implementation of a plan to fully address the permanent housing needs of
extremely low-income people.
Income - Assists people to secure enough income to afford rent - link with employment and/or benefits -
connects them to opportunities for increasing their incomes after housing placement.
Housing First is an approach to ending homelessness that centers on providing people experiencing
homelessness with housing as quickly as possible and then providing services as needed. This approach has the
benefit of being consistent with what most people experiencing homelessness want and seek help to achieve.
The three critical elements include: focus on helping individuals and families access and sustain permanent rental
housing as quickly as possible; variety of services to promote housing stability and individual well-being; and
standard lease agreement for housing. Program models vary significantly depending on the population served.
For chronic homelessness, intensive and specialized services will be needed indefinitely. However, the vast
majority of homeless individuals and families fall into homelessness after a housing or personal crisis that led
them to seek help. For these families and individuals, the Housing First Approach is ideal, as it provides them
December 6, 2014 Page 3
with assistance to find permanent housing quickly and without conditions. In turn, they usually need little support
or assistance to achieve independence.
Best practices by population include:
Chronic Homelessness - Permanent Supportive Housing
Family Homelessness - Rapid Re-Housing with access to services
Youth Homelessness (up to age 25) - Intervention services, housing options, transition support
Veteran Homelessness - Permanent Supportive Housing, Rapid Re-Housing, discharge support
Other communities across the nation address homelessness in a variety of ways. Staff has researched the
following communities (Attachments 1, 2, 3):
Eugene, OR
Approximately 3,000 homeless individuals
Approaches used:
o Many programs funded/provided by St. Vincent De Paul
o Homeless village including Tiny Homes and Conestoga’s
o Step Up Village (Emerald Village) in the planning stage
o Homeless camps/Rest Stops (15 people max)
o Car Camping
o Service Station
o Homelessness Management Information System (HMIS)
o Veterans housing project
o CAHOOTS program - first responder for disputes
o 15th Night - emerging program to address homeless youth
Danbury, CT
148 people experiencing homelessness in point-in-time count
Multi-pronged approach including provision of certain direct services and collaborative planning
City-run shelter provides 20 beds for men and women, plus an additional five beds for homeless veterans
City offers both a rental assistance program and a day center
City adheres to the “housing first” model
Partnered with Danbury Housing Partnership to develop a Plan to End Chronic Homelessness
Downtown businesses concerned about impact of homeless on their businesses
Saint Paul, MN
780 people experiencing homelessness in point-in-time count
The City of St. Paul does not provide direct services
Coordinated efforts between the police, providers, and homeless population
City distributes approx. $500,000 each year in HUD grant funding used for homelessness prevention,
essential services, operating costs, or improvements to homeless facilities
City set aside $400,000 to fund supportive housing upgrades
St. Paul Police Department recognized by the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness for its Police-
Homeless Outreach Program
Effort to end homelessness among veterans in the Twin Cities by January 2015
Burlington, VT
537 people experiencing homelessness in point-in-time count in Chittenden County
City does not provide direct services
Collaborative applicant for the Chittenden County Continuum of Care
December 6, 2014 Page 4
City developed a 10-year plan to end homelessness
City has some Housing Trust Fund funding that could go to permanent supportive housing
Nashville, TN
2,301 people experiencing homelessness in point-in-time count
City does not provide direct service
Metropolitan Homelessness Commission brings together stakeholders to plan and coordinate on
collaborative efforts that support permanent solutions to homelessness
How’s Nashville campaign - purpose to foster collaboration among stakeholders, focus on permanent
supportive housing
Online directory of services called Where to Turn in Nashville
Private landlord partnerships
Created a Cold Weather Community Response Plan
Adopt A Meter program - sponsorship for $1,000 used to cover rent and utility deposits, basic furniture,
and household goods
Phoenix, AZ
5,918 people experiencing homelessness in point-in-time count
City does provide direct services (3 FTE caseworkers)
Human Services Department
o Family Advocacy and Homeless Services Division
Bonded in 2001 for Affordable Housing and Homeless Shelter - $1,053,000
o Build Watkins Emergency Shelter
Summer and Winter Respite programs
Homeless Programs Section provides homeless services through contracts with community-based
organizations
Salt Lake City, UT
247 chronically homeless individuals in point-in-time count
City does not provide direct service, but they do have 1 FTE (Homeless Services Coordinator)
Homeless Outreach Service Team - connects homeless individuals with service providers and resources
Increased Police presence in the Depot District focusing on illegal behavior
Clean Teams - City partnered with Downtown Alliance and Valley Services to implement teams to pick up
trash and perform small property maintenance in Depot District
Veterans Court - direct connection to veterans’ treatment options and resources
Homeless Court
Denver’s Road Home
The city designated the Denver Department of Human Services to manage implementation of the plan
through the program called Denver’s Road Home (DRH). The program’s plan included eight broad goals
for ending homelessness:
1. Develop permanent and transitional housing opportunities to meet the needs of low-income
individuals.
2. Make safe shelter beds and activities available for all populations both day and night.
3. Increase services for preventing homelessness.
4. Improve access to supportive services that promote long-term stability.
5. Create a homeless outreach program to better connect homeless people and service agencies.
6. Assist people who are homeless in obtaining skills and knowledge necessary to participate in the
workforce.
7. Build community awareness and support for programs addressing the needs of the homeless.
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8. Reform Denver’s zoning, building and development codes to facilitate an adequate supply of
emergency and affordable housing.
Fort Collins Process Flow and Community Summit
There are many programs in Fort Collins for people experiencing homelessness or near homelessness.
However, some improvements in the process flow were identified by the Corporation for Supportive Housing in
2012. As Fort Collins continues to improve the homeless response system flow and ensure the appropriate
amount of services for the specific needs in the community, Homeward 2020 is coordinating a community-wide
Homelessness Summit. In partnership with Homeward 2020, Bohemian Foundation, Chamber of Commerce, and
the City of Fort Collins, the Corporation for Supportive Housing is being contracted to return to Fort Collins and
lead a series of facilitated community discussions on long-term and short-term strategies for identifying potential
improvements to the services provided to people experiencing homelessness in Fort Collins. There will be two
sessions: the first session will take place the third week of January, and the second session will take place the
first week of February. See Attachment 4 for detailed overview.
City Funding for Housing and Public Service for Homelessness or Homelessness Prevention
The primary role the City takes in addressing homelessness in Fort Collins is through supporting and providing
funding for several housing and public service functions. See Attachment 5 for explanation of services.
Housing Provider/Project 2014 2013 2012 2011 Total
FCHA-Redtail Ponds Supportive
Housing
$350,000 $455,00
0
$586,0
77
$1,391,077
FCHA-TBRA for CDDT $156,24
0
$156,240
FCHA-Village on Redwood $1,312,745 $1,312,745
Housing Catalyst (FCHA)-Cunningham
Corner
$38,191 $899,65
1
$1,072,8
11
$2,010,653
N2N-Coachlight Plaza $43,257 $34,515 $77,772
Villages-Village on Matuka $380,000 $380,000
Totals $1,744,193 $934,16
6
$1,684,0
51
$586,0
77
$4,948,487
City Funding - Public Service for Homelessness or Homelessness Prevention
Agency Name 2014 2013 2012 2011 Total
CCN Seniors $15,000 $15,000 $15,00
0
$11,331 $56,331
CCN Shelter & Rapid Rehousing $40,000 $40,000 $40,00
0
$40,000 $160,000
(CHN)NCAP-Client Svc/Hm Prev. $18,514 $14,240 $15,00
0
$24,500 $72,254
Crossroads Safe.-Advocacy $39,000 $31,885 $39,85
3
$42,202 $152,940
DRS-ATI $26,261 $26,186 $23,37
December 6, 2014 Page 6
0
N2N - Rent $36,125 $30,000 $25,00
0
$25,000 $116,125
PS-S-Services for Single Parents $30,000 $33,000 $22,00
0
$22,000 $107,000
Serve 6.8-Murphy Center $18,533 $18,533
Touchstone-CDDT Program $31,328 $28,38
0
$14,000 $73,708
Touchstone-Mental Hlth-Murphy $18,000 $22,500 $10,00
0
$50,500
Totals $390,549 $323,215 $320,3
63
$320,28
9
$1,354,416
Permanent Supportive Housing
Fort Collins Housing Authority is currently constructing the first permanent supportive housing development in
Fort Collins. It is scheduled to open in February, 2015 and provide 60 units that will serve homeless veterans,
homeless with disabilities, and other low-income residents. Permanent Supportive Housing has proven outcomes
including:
Improves housing stability
Improves mental and physical health
Reduces substance abuse
Improves income and employment
Creates social and community connections
Additional New Services
The following programs/projects are relatively new or currently in the process of happening in Fort Collins:
One Village One Family - A mentor supported rapid re-housing program for homeless families being
coordinated by Homeless Gear.
Genesis Project - A faith based day center with a mission to serve those in need.
Faith Family Hospitality - A program providing homeless families a place to sleep in participating churches
on a weekly rotation.
Municipal Court Special Agency Sessions and Remote Service - Court personnel meets with people in
the community at the Murphy Center or at various libraries to provide information on pending charges and
discuss options to resolve such charges in a non-emergency setting.
Matthews House Community Life Center and Host Families - A day center with resources for families in
poverty. Their host family program case manager matches homeless youth, families, or individuals with
home owners willing to provide temporary shelter.
Winter Overflow Shelter - A collective effort of the local shelters, the United Way, and the faith based
community to provide additional shelter beds in the winter when permanent shelter space is inadequate.
Additional New Housing Projects/Programs
Governor’s Office Permanent Supportive Housing Toolkit - A team from Fort Collins was selected to
participate. By participating, our community’s projects get a priority for tax credits. The Fort Collins team
includes representatives from the Fort Collins Housing Authority, Homeward 2020, Neighbor to Neighbor,
and Serve 6.8.
Community Capital Improvement Program Offer - For a second permanent supportive housing project.
December 6, 2014 Page 7
Education, Outreach, and Data
Community Summit - As mentioned above, Homeward 2020, Bohemian Foundation, Chamber of
Commerce, and the City of Fort Collins, are coordinating a series of facilitated community discussions on
long-term and short-term strategies for identifying potential improvements to the services provided to
people experiencing homelessness in Fort Collins. There will be two sessions: the first session will take
place the third week of January, and the second session will take place the first week of February.
Advisory Committee - The Downtown Development Authority has started conversations with homeless
service providers, activists, representatives from the faith community, and City representatives from
Social Sustainability and Police Services to possibly create an advisory committee to address
homelessness and develop education for the business community.
Homelessness Management Information System (HMIS) - The City included a budget offer that was
approved to support HMIS in Northern Colorado. The on-line system will enable non-profit service,
shelter, and housing providers in different locations across Northern Colorado to collect and share
information that can be used to enhance service delivery and provide important data to better understand
what services are used and what gaps remain.
City’s Role
Traditionally, the City has been a funder, convener, facilitator, and enforcer of laws. The City has provided
funding for many housing projects and service programs. This work is done by: Social Sustainability, Police
Services, Neighborhood Services, Municipal Court, City Attorney’s Office, Fort Collins Housing Authority, and
Poudre Fire Authority.
Potential Options for Council Consideration
1. Staff recommends that the City continue to support and fund housing and service programs that are
proven to support chronic and situational homelessness.
2. Staff recommends that the City continue to partner, convene, ad facilitate community services and inter-
agency task force or advisory committee.
3. Consider providing additional lockers needed at the Murphy Center and a fence to secure the outdoor
location.
4. Staff recommends taking an active role in the upcoming Community Summit and that the City carefully
considers how the City can assist with implementation of recommended outcomes. Another work session
with City Council after the Summit is recommended.
5. Staff recommends re-evaluating the need in the community after the upcoming projects and programs are
functioning.
6. Other ideas from other communities.
7. Consider exploring potential programs through the court process. This could include looking at programs
available in other courts to see if they could be available to people going through the Municipal Court
process.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Staff memo re: Eugene Oregon trip to review Homeless strategies (PDF)
2. Homelessness Research Memo (PDF)
3. Report on City Homelessness Role (PDF)
4. DRAFT Overview for the Fort Collins Community Conversations on Homelessness (PDF)
5. Housing Providers and Agencies Preventing Homelessness (PDF)
6. Powerpoint presentation (PDF)
City Manager’s Office
City Hall
300 LaPorte Ave.
PO Box 580
Fort Collins, CO 80522
970.221.6505
970.224.6107 - fax
fcgov.com
Memorandum
DRAFT
DT: November 10, 2014
TO: Mayor Weitkunat and City Council Members
TH: Darin Atteberry, City Manager
Jeff Mihelich, Deputy City Manager
FM: Bruce Hendee, Chief Sustainability Officer
Cc: Lieutenant Jim Byrne
RE: Eugene, Oregon trip to review Homeless strategies
Summary
Jeff Mihelich, Bruce Hendee, and Jim Byrne visited Eugene Oregon On October 30
th
to review
ongoing efforts by the City of Eugene on homeless. Overall the visit was productive and
informative. Eugene has a substantial population of homeless individuals. Some of this is likely
due to a high unemployment rate of approximately 9%. According to the City of Eugene Web
site and corroborated by City Officials, there approximately 3,000 homeless in Eugene and
approximately 10,000 in Lane County. The trend in homelessness began in earnest during the
Occupy movement although many of the homelessness activities have been happening over
many years.
Working with the homeless has become a part of the community’s culture and they seem to make
it a big focus of the community activities.
Major activities include:
A homeless village including Tiny homes and Conestoga’s.
A Step Up Village called Emerald Village is in the planning stage
Homeless camps/Rest Stops ( 15 people max per rest stop)
Car camping
Homeless Service Station
Homeless Management Information System
Veteran’s housing project
including homeless camps, service centers, a homeless village, a Veteran’s housing
project
ATTACHMENT 1
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“CAHOOTS” a City funded program that provides 2 vans and EMT’s (not paid as EMTs-
volunteers). The Cahoots program is a first responder to disputes with homeless and low
income residents. It is staffed by a clinic called White Bird which is a 40 year old Clinic.
15
th
Night – An emerging program to address the critical timeframe in which youth are
homeless
St. Vincent De Paul (St. Vinnie’s)
This organization with roots in the Catholic Church is a significant part of the homeless work in
the community dating back to 1953. St. Vinnie’s has become a significant force in the
community with an annual operating budget of $25M-$30M. They own and operate a retail thrift
store, a boutique store, a used car lot, develop affordable housing projects, manage the car
camping program, fund and operate the Eugene Service Station, provide homeless shelters,
manage a recycling center, provide emergency services for things like food and rent assistance,
operate a business incubator, assist with employment services etc. Clearly their efforts in the
community are a significant part of the overall reason the community has such a substantial base
of support for low income residents. The CEO Terry McDonald has been in this job for over 40
years.
Background
Opportunity Village - This village sponsored by the City of Eugene and a Faith Based
organization. It sits on City owned land and the City has empowered the village through
providing the land virtually for free and minimizing code enforcement. There are 33
residents and a governing “Council” consisting of residents whom self- enforce rules of
the village. Residents may apply to the Council and the Church to become residents.
There are posted rules of conduct. There are no maximum stay lengths but the village is
only a little over a year old. The village is located in an industrial district and is next to
Public Works and Park’s department land. The village is enclosed in chain link fence
with two strands of barbed wire fencing and has a gate which is closed at night for
security. Police indicate there are few problems and residents do a good job of self-
enforcement.
Within the village there are basically two types of housing with a central facility which is
a Yurt structure which serves as a community room. During cold nights residents can stay
in the Yurt. The Yurt also has computers, games and other functions.
The two types of housing consist of a “Conestoga” which is a canvas type structure
closed on both ends which provides very small “tiny homes” approximately 60-100SF.
A second form of tiny home is a small slant roofed structure designed by a local architect.
It is not bad but not great either. All homes are placed on sleds and are movable in order
to avoid code and state statute compliance issues. No flames are permitted in the
residences and there is no heat or electricity.
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There is a single bathroom building with a men’s and women’s restroom with a shower.
This is also a temporary structure. On one side of the building there is a washer and dryer
for clothing.
There is also a donated work building constructed by local university students which
serves for small projects by residents.
Residents of Opportunity do not own residences nor do they build equity. Cost to stay is
$3/night. Villagers help the parks department by cleaning restrooms at parks.
It is not likely Opportunity Village could exist within the city of Fort Collins because it
would not meet our building codes and there is no heat which would make it prohibitive
in Colorado’s climate.
Emerald Village
This is a step up facility proposed across the street from Opportunity Village. Again the
Faith Community is the primary provider and is planning on giving residents low cost
“homes” in which they pay more rent but grow equity in the homes as they pay them
down. Paying in this case means rent free but paying utilities. This is a form of
transitional housing where residents have jobs and are working their way back into
society. There is no limit on stay length but they have to apply to be able to get
transitional housing. This village will have heating and electricity.
Rest Stops
These are small campgrounds of less than an acre. They are enabled by the City but
operated by not for profits. They are limited by ordinance to 15 residents. Couples are
permitted. Some of the rest stops are specifically for veterans. Like Opportunity Village
they are located within chain link fence with barbed wire on top with a gate. The rest
stops are closed during the day and residents are required to exit the camps. They are
closed at night for security.
Car Camps
The name is not quite accurate. They really are campers that are located on various
properties. The car camp program is operated by St. Vinnie’s with permission of the City.
There is a designated person (Keith) that is charged with enforcement of the car camping
program. Campers are actually in demand in some locations for security. Specifically
they are often requested at construction sites to stem the theft of valuable construction
materials. They are also located in other areas in the City including some parks sites.
Park site stay lengths are limited to 90 days. There is no limit on stay length and from
what we were able to witness, they were quite unattractive. Each Car Camp requires
electricity and a port a pottie (paid by St. Vinnie’s). Residents are screened by St.
Vinnie’s prior to be accepted. The car camping program has been in place since 1997.
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30-40 units managed by St. Vinnie’s. Max of 4 residents/site. Camper vehicles must have
wheels. Some residents have been in car camp sites for 3 years.
Police Services pays $79,000 out of their budget a year for the management of this
program. If there is a complaint St. Vinnie’s can pull the camp permit. Cost of program is
about $90/month per site. They lose about $40K per year on the program.
Family Camping Program
This is managed by St. Vinnie’s. They manage 1300 units
Service Station
This is a one stop service station for the homeless. This is primarily supported by St.
Vinnie’s. The facility provides a place for homeless to come and socialize, to do laundry,
to get food, and to check in. The service station has lockers, bike storage, a kitchen, a
food pantry, bathrooms, and showers.
Veteran’s Program
The Veteran’s program was started by the City Manager and several others in the
community including St. Vinnie’s. The intention of this program is to provide re-entry for
Veteran’s. This program purchases under-utilized or vacant properties, guts them and
rebuilds them into nice small homes. They then rent the homes at very low rates to
veterans for up to two years. They have 6 homes in the program to date.
15
th
Day Program
This is a personal mission of the City Manager. There is evidence to indicate youth that
remain homeless for more than 14 days have an 85% chance of becoming chronically
homeless. The City Manager together with a team of agencies including the County and
school district are currently working on a program to place a firewall at the 14
th
day to
prevent youth from getting to the 15
th
day. The program is being design and is not yet in
action.
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City Manager’s Office
PO Box 580
300 LaPorte Ave.
Fort Collins, CO 80522
970.221.6505
970.224.6107 - fax
fcgov.com
MEMORANDUM
Date: October 30, 2014
To: Jeff Mihelich, Deputy City Manager
From: Travis Machalek, Graduate Management Assistant
Re: Homelessness Review of Danbury, CT; Saint Paul, MN; and “Campland on the
Bay”, San Diego, CA
Executive Summary
Research was conducted on two municipalities and one private site mentioned in an Access
Fort Collins request. The two municipalities (Danbury, CT and Saint Paul, MN) approach the
issue of homelessness in two different manners. Danbury provides direct services (including a
shelter) and collaborates with local entities in planning efforts directed at ending homelessness.
Saint Paul provides funding to area non-profits working to address homelessness and
participates in a successful police/provider/homeless population collaboration. Campland on the
Bay (the private site mentioned in the Access Fort Collins request) is not, and has never been, a
facility intended to serve individuals experiencing homelessness. More information on each of
these entities can be found below.
Danbury, CT
Danbury, CT (population 83,000) is located approximately 70 miles northeast of New York City.
The January 2014 point-in-time count identified 148 people in the Danbury region that were
experiencing homelessness. The City of Danbury’s has taken a multi-pronged approach to
addressing homelessness, including the provision of certain direct services and collaborative
planning with the Danbury Housing Partnership.
The City of Danbury runs one of the three local, year-round shelters (the other two are operated
by non-profits). The City-run shelter provides 20 beds for men and women, plus an additional
five beds designated for homeless veterans. A valid Connecticut ID is required in order to stay
at the City shelter; a requirement that was implemented due to an influx of homeless individuals
from neighboring jurisdictions (NYC).
In addition to the shelter, the City of Danbury offers both a rental assistance program and a day
center (information/referrals, screening for entitlement eligibility, and advocacy). In September
of 2014, the City received a $650,000 grant from the state Department of Health to be used for
security deposits, utility deposits, rent subsidies, and related expenses.1 The City adheres to the
“Housing First” model, coupled with strict case management.
1 http://www.newstimes.com/local/article/Danbury-gets-650-000-to-aid-homeless-renters-5732024.php
ATTACHMENT 2
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The City of Danbury also approaches the issue of homelessness through collaborative planning.
In 2014, the City partnered with the Danbury Housing Partnership to develop a Plan to End
Chronic Homelessness (two consultants were retained to assist in the development of the plan:
Public Consulting Group and solutions4community LLC). The plan contains action items to
address the overall goals of “Increased Income & Economic Security”, “Improved Health &
Effective Use of Health Services”, and “Increased Supply of Supportive Housing”.
A review of news articles in the local paper (The News Times) reveals tension between the
community and the homeless population. Downtown business owners are concerned about the
impact of homeless individuals in the downtown area on their businesses. Solutions proposed in
downtown partnership public meetings range from asking the package liquor stores to open up
an hour later in the morning to banning social services offices from the downtown district.2
Additionally, one of the non-profit shelters that doubles as a soup kitchen (Dorothy Day
Hospitality House) has drawn attention from Council due to concerns over the prevalence of
drug activity in the area that has been attributed to the facility.
Saint Paul, MN
Saint Paul, MN (population 294,873) is the second largest city in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul
metropolitan area (population 3.46 million). As of the January 22, 2014 point-in-time count, there
were 780 homeless individuals (emergency shelters and unsheltered counts) in the Saint Paul
area. The City of Saint Paul does not provide social services. Rather, its approach to addressing
homelessness consists of coordinated efforts between the police, providers, and homeless
population, as well as the utilization of funding mechanisms to provide support to the community
of non-profits working on homelessness in the area.
In terms of financial support, the City distributes roughly $500,000 each year in HUD
Emergency Solutions Grant funding to organizations working to address homelessness in the
Saint Paul area. These grant funds can be used for homelessness prevention, essential
services, operating costs, or improvements to homeless facilities. Beyond the ECS funding, the
City has set aside $400,000 from a Capital and Cultural Services ½¢ sales tax to fund
supportive housing upgrades.
The Saint Paul Police Department has been recognized by the U.S. Interagency Council on
Homelessness for its Police-Homeless Outreach Program (P-HOP). The program (a partnership
between the City of Saint Paul and the South Metro Human Services) consists of a P-HOP
worker from the South metro Human Services who is stationed in a police sub-station and works
with law enforcement to improve outcomes for homeless individuals with multiple police
encounters. The Police Department also participates in “police-provider forums”, where police
and providers consult each other on the best ways to help people experiencing homelessness.
These forums have helped to build trust and knowledge sharing between the police, the
providers, and the homeless population.
Homelessness in Saint Paul is generally addressed with the same urgency as other issues in
the community. That is to say, there is not a consistent voice in the community driving work on
this issue at this time. However, it is important to note that in January of this year, the Mayors of
both Saint Paul and Minneapolis announced an effort to end homelessness among veterans in
the Twin Cities by January 2015.
2 http://www.newstimes.com/local/article/Nowhere-to-go-Danbury-homeless-speak-out-4758917.php#page-1
3 of 3 | P a g e
San Diego, CA (Campland on the Bay)
Campland on the Bay (San Diego, CA) is a privately-owned, family-oriented recreation and
entertainment location. Daily winter rates range from $39 for a Dry Site (not by the ocean) to
$288.27 for a Super Site. Weekly winter rates range from $342 for a Limited Site to $1,278 for a
Super Site. Summer rates are slightly higher.
Campland has leased the property on which it is located from the City of San Diego since 1967.
Beyond acting as the lessor, there appears to be no other City of San Diego involvement in the
project. There is no indication that this commercial facility is, or ever has been, intended to
serve as a facility for individuals experiencing homelessness.
THE ROLE OF THE CITY
IN HOMELESSNESS
EFFORTS
A review of various
levels of city
government
involvement in
efforts to address
homelessness
ATTACHMENT 3
Table of Contents
Burlington, VT ............................................................................................................................ 2
Nashville, TN (Combined City-County Metro Government) ..................................................... 3
Phoenix, AZ ................................................................................................................................ 4
Salt Lake City, UT ...................................................................................................................... 5
Burlington, VT
Direct Service Provision: No
FTE Dedicated to Homelessness: 0
Programs of note:
The City is collaborative applicant for the Chittenden County Continuum of Care
o Co-Chair of Continuum is a City Employee
o City acts as a driver of policy and provides technical assistance
City developed a 10-Year Plan to End Homelessness (2004)
o Recommendations for action included:
Increase supply of affordable housing
Increase the supply of permanent supportive housing
Increase transitional housing opportunities, with associated services, for
those who need temporary supports before moving into independent
permanent housing arrangements
Develop additional capacity to serve those who need permanent housing,
but are resistant to traditional service models, including low demand/low
engagement shelter/housing and harm reduction programs
Provide the resources necessary to help people maintain a stable housing
situation and to prevent homelessness
Stably rehouse victims of domestic violence as soon as possible
Reduce discriminatory/cultural barriers to obtaining and keeping housing
and services
Help people move into and keep employment, either at a livable wage or
with sufficient additional supports to yield a livable wage equivalent
Develop a comprehensive housing and supportive services approach to
ease the re-entry process of ex-offenders and to improve the likelihood for
successful outcomes
Make sure that treatment for drug and alcohol abuse and for mental illness
is readily and promptly available to those willing to accept it
Improve access to delivery of services
Improve the local delivery of services
Develop educational strategies to reduce homelessness
Develop better ways of measuring who, and how many, are homeless and
what their individual needs are
The City has some Housing Trust Fund funding that could go to permanent supportive
housing
o The majority of funding distributed by the City to address homelessness is federal
grant money
Nashville, TN (Combined City-County Metro Government)
Direct Service Provision: No
FTE Dedicated to Homelessness: 4
Programs of note:
Metropolitan Homelessness Commission (MHC)
o Brings together advocates, nonprofit organizations, for-profit business leaders,
government agencies, and the general public
Planning and coordinating entity focused on collaborative efforts that
support permanent solutions to homelessness
o Created to implement the City’s Ten Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness
o In June, 2014 Metro Council established commission as a permanent body of
metro government
Responsibilities include:
To implement a coordinated and focused approach to ending
homelessness and to develop measurable goals;
To assure participation of all stakeholders including homeless
persons;
To maintain accurate, current data on homeless populations; and
To educate the public, service providers and other interested
parties on issues related to homelessness.
o FY 2013 budget of $1,465,200
How’s Nashville campaign
o Launched by MHC in 2013
o Purpose is to foster collaboration among stakeholders from the nonprofit,
business, faith-based, private, and government sectors to improve the local system
in regard to the housing placement rate and retention of housing for individuals
and families experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.
o Focused on permanent supportive housing
Online directory of services called Where to Turn in Nashville
o Created by The Contributor
A nonprofit weekly street paper distributed by homeless individuals
Private Landlord Partnerships
o Several private landlords set aside a few units at discounted rates to house people
identified by How’s Nashville partners as vulnerable
Created a Cold Weather Community Response Plan
o Different levels of cold triggering different responses
o Partnership between government and nonprofit organizations
Adopt A Meter program
o 26 donation meters posted in high-foot-traffic areas in downtown
o Adopt-a-Meter offers a one-year sponsorship for $1,000 per meter
$1,000 used to cover rent and utility deposits, basic furniture, and
household goods
Phoenix, AZ
Direct Service Provision: Yes (Caseworkers)
FTE Dedicated to Homelessness: 3
Programs of note:
Human Services Department
o Family Advocacy and Homeless Services Division
FY 2014-2015 Budget of $4, 654,482
Combination of CDBG/HUD funds ($1,641, 600), General Funds
($2,981,914), and Other Funds (30,968)
11 FTEs in FY 2014-2015
3 for Homeless Program
o One Administrative Assistant II
o Two Caseworkers
Bonded in 2001 for Affordable Housing and Homeless Shelter - $1,053,000
o Built Watkins Emergency Shelter
Operated through a contract with a nonprofit organization
Year-round emergency shelter for homes single women and families
Sleeping accommodations
Meals
Laundry
Clothing
Health care
Behavioral health
Housing resources
Case management
Summer and Winter Respite programs
o Coordinate collection, storage, and distribution of essential items
Items distributed by local community and faith-based homeless outreach
teams
Items include : water, sunscreen hats, hygiene items, blankets, shoes, and
seasonal clothing
Homeless Programs Section supports homeless services through contracts with
community-based organizations to provide emergency shelter, transitional housing,
permanent supportive housing, and other supportive services for homeless families and
individuals
Salt Lake City, UT
Direct Service Provision: No
FTE Dedicated to Homelessness: 1 (Homeless Services Coordinator)
Programs of note:
Full-time Homeless Services Coordinator
o Administers federal emergency solutions grants (ESG)
o Coordinates City’s efforts to combat homelessness
Works directly with service providers and other funding agencies
Contracted with Director of Stegner Environmental Dispute Resolution (EDR) Program
of the University of Utah’s Law school to conduct a three-month study that will give the
City a long-term situation analysis of homeless issues in Downtown
Homeless Outreach Service Team (HOST)
o Launched in 2011 to connect homeless individuals with social service providers
and resources
o Trainings and regular meetings between PD officers and providers
o Leverage meter donations and tax-deductible bank donations to help fund
program
o HOST reference card enable police officers to reach providers with one call
o Once a week, various service e providers and City’s police department go to
Pioneer Park or other outdoor location and contact people who do not usually use
homeless services
Increased Police Presence in the Depot District (hot spot)
o Increase of ten officers and two sergeants assigned to Depot District, Main Street,
and Library Square
o Super Operations
Officers from Community Intelligence Unit, Narcotics, Detectives, Public
Relations, Salt Lake Information Center, and Patrol deployed
Operations conducted over the course of a week
Move from covert to overt in progression
o Undercover Narcotics and Vice Operations
Weekly undercover operations in Depot District
Target illegal drug dealing, drug solicitation, prostitution, and other related
crimes
o Increased Patrols
Clean Teams
o City partnered with Downtown Alliance and Valley Services to implement
o Teams walk every street in Depot District once or twice a day
Pick up Trash
Perform small property maintenance
o Valley Services supervises and employs the clean teams
Local nonprofit that employs individuals who suffer from mental illness or
have been hindered by other life challenges
Janitorial service/Catering
Offers business related education programs
o Clean Team members are made up of users of the Weigand Center (Homeless
Day Center)
Clean Team work may lead to other employment opportunities with
Valley Services
Veterans Court
o Allows direct connection to veterans’ treatment options and resources
Homeless Court
o In operation since 2004
o Allows informal setting for hearing offenses like public intoxication, open
container, and trespass to be heard.
o Certain offenses not fully considered in homeless court based on seriousness (i.e.
DUI, domestic violence, other assaultive conduct)
DRAFT Overview for the Fort Collins Community Conversations on Homelessness
Background
Due to a number of concerns in Spring and Summer 2014, the City of Fort Collins recognized a
need to convene a forum or summit on homelessness. The City convened an initial meeting with
Homeward 2020, the Bohemian Foundation, and the Chamber of Commerce to discuss what such a
forum could accomplish. Homeward 2020 suggested utilizing CSH (the Corporation for Supportive
Housing, a national expert on developing effective responses to homelessness) to facilitate these
discussions. CSH provided technical assistance to the Fort Collins community in 2012 to develop an
initial systems map demonstrating the current flow through services by someone experiencing
homeless.
Since this initial meeting, Homeward 2020, the City of Fort Collins, the Bohemian Foundation, and
the Chamber of Commerce have committed to co-planning a set of community conversations on
homelessness, to be held in Winter 2015, utilizing CSH as the primary consultant and facilitator.
Additional meetings have been held between these community partners and CSH to develop the
following outcomes and objectives. Planning continues to ensure these conversations will be well-
managed, productive, and effective in achieving our collective outcomes.
Key Outcomes for Community Conversations:
1. Community can actively voice concerns, offer ideas, and commit to participating in
solutions that make homelessness rare, short-lived, and non-recurring
2. Frustrations of community are heard and incorporated into planning
3. Community develops a model for productive dialogue for addressing complex, charged
issues
4. Community knows how to participate in collective efforts to address homelessness and
who is taking on which aspects of the system
5. An action plan outlining steps in the short-, medium-, and long-term is constructed
6. Immediate action is able to be taken to begin implementing changes to the homelessness
response system
As currently proposed, the community conversations will be comprised of two separate sessions.
The primary purpose of the first session is to provide an opportunity to develop a community-wide
understanding of homelessness and its impacts on the community through facilitated dialogue. The
primary purpose of the second session is to develop actionable, creative, and collaborative solutions
to address homelessness. A description and key objectives of each session are included below. The
details of each session are still in the process of being finalized as additional information and
feedback from community partners is incorporated into the planning process.
Session 1: Educational Feedback Session (est. date Jan. 20, 21, or 22)
CSH would begin by conducting an initial in-person session to introduce the community
conversations, provide an educational context regarding homelessness, and foster dialogue on
addressing street homelessness. This session would take approximately 2-3 hours and could be
repeated twice in the same day (morning and afternoon.) These sessions will be broadly open to the
community and include a wide variety of stakeholders.
ATTACHMENT 4
Key Objectives for Session 1:
1. Increase knowledge of homelessness, its impact, and the current response system
2. Increase readiness among community to take action
3. Collect and refine data and information regarding the homelessness response system to
inform Session 2
4. Provide a space for facilitated, effective dialogue around homelessness
Following Session 1, CSH would work with Fort Collins community partners and other relevant
community stakeholders to obtain and analyze key data regarding system performance and gaps in
order to further develop the agenda for Session 2.
Session 2: Developing Actionable, Creative, and Collaborative Solutions (est. date
Feb. 3, 4, or 5)
Session 2 will be informed by the results of Session 1 above and any feedback obtained through
additional meetings, focus groups, or community surveys conducted by community partners. This
in-depth one-day session will walk participants through clearly defining and prioritizing
gaps/challenges within the system and developing concrete action steps to address them. CSH will
provide a brief report summarizing the engagement and providing recommendations.
Key Objectives for Session 2:
1. Develop an action plan for addressing gaps and challenges in the homelessness response
system
2. Increase buy-in and commitment from participants to implement action plan
1
HOUSING PROVIDERS AND NON-PROFIT AGENCIES
FUNDED BY CITY OF FORT COLLINS
WORKING TO PREVENT HOMELESSNESS
OR WORKING WITH PEOPLE WHO ARE HOMELESS
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
FORT COLLINS HOUSING AUTHORITY: Redtail Ponds Permanent Supportive Housing
Fort Collins Housing Authority is building Redtail Ponds Permanent Supportive Housing. This
affordable housing project will provide 60 units of housing for the chronically homeless, and those
at risk of homelessness. Residents will receive long-term case management and supportive
services.
FORT COLLINS HOUSING AUTHORITY: Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) for CDDT
The Fort Collins Housing Authority provides rental assistance to chronically homeless people
through the Tenant Based Rental Assistance program. The Community Dual Disorders Treatment
(CDDT) program works with people suffering from both severe mental illness and a severe
substance abuse disorder. Housing eligibility, compliance, coaching, housing search, lease
negotiations, housing retention and re-housing issues are among the functions of the CDDT
program.
FORT COLLINS HOUSING AUTHORITY: Village on Redwood: A Vibrant, Sustainable Community
Fort Collins Housing Authority will be building a new affordable rental housing community. Once
built, Seventy-Two: A Vibrant Sustainable Community will provide 72 units of affordable rental
housing to households with incomes between 0-60% Area Median Income (AMI).
HOUSING CATALYST (FCHA): Villages on Cunningham Corner Rehabilitation
Housing Catalyst, LLC, a wholly-owned entity of Fort Collins Housing Authority, purchased and is e
rehabilitating 284 units of permanently affordable rental housing at the Villages at Cunningham
Corner, located at the northeast corner of Horsetooth Road and Shields Street. Most of the
residents at this community have household incomes between 30-60% of AMI.
NEIGHBOR TO NEIGHBOR
Neighbor to Neighbor provides stable, affordable rental housing low-income and extremely low-
income residents. Coachlight Plaza offers 68 rental units to clients earning 30% AMI or less.
VILLAGES, LTD. (FCHA): Village on Matuka
Villages, Ltd., the non-profit arm of Fort Collins Housing Authority, was funded to rehabilitate 20
permanently affordable rental units at the Villages on Matuka Court, located off of East Conifer.
The residents at this community have household incomes between 0-30% of AMI.
ATTACHMENT 5
2
PUBLIC SERVICE
CATHOLIC CHARITIES: Senior Services
Senior Outreach Services provides assistance to at-risk elderly with the goal of enabling them to
maintain greater health, safety, and independence. This program assists at-risk elderly to remain
in their homes.
CATHOLIC CHARITIES: Shelter and Post-Shelter Services
Catholic Charities’ shelter (the Mission) provides shelter, food, case management, resource
navigation, benefits application assistance, and transitional housing help in support of the
homeless and near homeless.
COLORADO HEALTH NETWORK dba NORTHERN COLORADO AIDS PROJECT (NCAP):
Client Services
The Case Management and Homelessness Prevention Programs help families and individuals coping
with HIV/AIDS retain their household stability and health as their ability to be financially
independent diminishes.
CROSSROADS SAFEHOUSE: Domestic Violence Family Advocacy Program
Crossroads provides emergency shelter, services and outreach to abused adults who face
homelessness at a full-service facility.
DISABLED RESOURCE SERVICES: Access to Independence (ATI) Program
The ATI Program provides supportive case management and community assistance to increase the
independence of adults with severe disabilities many of whom have either been homeless or are at
risk of becoming homeless.
HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION INITIATIVE (HPI): Emergency Rental Assistance
Emergency Rent Assistance provides temporary funding to cover the cost of rent for families facing
eviction.
THE MATTHEWS HOUSE: Empowering Youth Program
The Matthews House intensively works with at-risk, homeless, and abused youth, ages 16-21,
transitioning them to become contributing adult community members. Case management,
independent living skills, and aftercare are offered towards achieving self-sufficiency.
NEIGHBOR TO NEIGHBOR (N2N): Housing Counseling
Housing Counseling consists of the following services: Emergency Rent Assistance Counseling, Pre-
rental Counseling, Landlord/Tenant Counseling, Pre-purchase Counseling/Homebuyer Classes and
Training, Mortgage Default Counseling and Reverse Mortgage Counseling.
NEIGHBOR TO NEIGHBOR (N2N): Rent Assistance
Neighbor to Neighbor’s Emergency Rent Assistance Program provides rent assistance and first
month’s rent for residents who need financial assistance to maintain housing. Clients are assisted
3
with a one-time payment up to $350 for rent assistance, and up to $500 towards a first month’s
rent payment.
PROJECT SELF-SUFFICIENCY (PS-S): Services for Single-Parent Families
The mission of Project Self-Sufficiency is to assist low-income single parents in their efforts to build
and maintain strong, healthy families, achieve economic independence, and become free from
community and government assistance, many are homeless or at risk or becoming homeless.
SERVE 6.8: Sister Mary Alice Murphy Center for Hope
Serve 6.8 assumed ownership and the operations function for the Murphy Center in summer of
2013. The request funding covers a portion of salaries for the five resource specialists working with
clients who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
TOUCHSTONE HEALTH PARTNERS: Community Dual Disorders Treatment (CDDT) Program
The CDDT is a collaboration of Larimer Center for Mental Health, the Health District of Northern
Larimer County and the Fort Collins Housing Authority, which combines intensive case
management and therapeutic services with housing assistance for persons with severe mental
illness and severe substance abuse disorders, many of whom are homeless or at risk of becoming
homeless.
TOUCHSTONE HEALTH PARTNERS: Critical Mental Health Services--Murphy Center
The Mental Health specialist at the Murphy Center does initial mental health assessments, provides
up to 10 short-term therapy sessions, collaborates for a spectrum of care with other community
health providers, and performs crisis intervention triage, as necessary for people who are homeless
or at risk of becoming homeless.
Homelessness
Defining the issue in Fort Collins
ATTACHMENT 6
Direction Sought
• Does Council agree that the current City role should
continue at the same level of funding, facilitating, and
convening?
• Would Council like to see additional services provided
by the City?
• Does Council need additional information or have any
suggestions for changes?
2
State of Homelessness
Nationally:
• 610,042 people experiencing homelessness
– 222,197 families
– 387,845 individuals
– Approx. 50,000 youth
– 18% chronically homeless
– 9% veterans
– Almost one quarter (23%) under 18
– The number has declined 9% since 2009
*Source: National Alliance to End Homelessness
3
State of Homelessness
Colorado:
• Denver – 5,812 (January 2014)
– 36% women
– 43% families
– 24% “newly” homeless
– Anecdotal information (DenverPost and FC Rescue Mission)
indicates reasons for rise in Colorado
• Rise due to marijuana
• Hot job market
• Desire to live in Fort Collins
*Source: The Gathering Place
4
State of Homelessness
Fort Collins:
• 289 individuals – Winter PIT
– 33% families
– 5% veterans
– 16% chronically homeless
• 438 individuals – Summer PIT
– 8% families
– 9% travelers
– 8% veterans
– 31% chronically homeless
*Source: Homeward 2020 Point-in-Time Count
5
Definition of Terms
• Chronic Homelessness – continually homeless for a
year or more, or at least 4 episodes of homelessness
in the past 3 years.
• Situational Homelessness – Something happened to
cause their homelessness (sickness, loss of job,
divorce, etc.)
• Transient – not interested in housing; may be
traveling through town or prefer camping
6
Gaps Analysis
• Gaps in continuum of housing
• Needs for homeless youth and
families
• Previously incarcerated have
few choices
• People with pets have few
choices
• Couples or other familial
situations
7
Best Practices
• Clear, deliberate, comprehensive strategy
• Plan – Homeward 2020 has 10 year plan
• Data – Point In Time Counts and Homelessness
Management Information System (HMIS)
• Emergency Prevention
• Systems Prevention
8
Source: National Alliance to End Homelessness
Best Practices
• Outreach
• Shorten Homelessness
• Rapid Re-Housing
• Supportive Services
• Permanent Housing
• Income
9
“Rare, Short-lived, and Non Recurring”
Best Practices by Population
• Chronic Homelessness – Permanent
Supportive Housing
• Family Homelessness – Rapid Re-
Housing with access to services
• Youth Homelessness (up to age 25) –
Intervention services, housing options,
transition support
• Veteran Homelessness – Permanent
Supportive Housing, Rapid Re-Housing,
Discharge Support
10
Housing First Approach
• Emphasizes stable,
permanent housing
• Focus on quick access
• Variety of services to
promote stability and well-
being
• Standard lease agreement
11
Proven Outcomes
12
Permanent
Supportive
Housing
Permanent
Supportive
Housing
Improves
housing
stability
Improves
housing
stability
Improves
mental and
physical
health
Improves
mental and
physical
health
Reduces
substance
abuse
Reduces
substance
abuse
Improves
income and
employment
Improves
income and
employment
Creates social
and
community
connections
Creates social
and
community
connections
Permanent Supportive Housing
13
Opening February 2015!
60 Units Serving:
Homeless veterans
Homeless w/ a disability
Other low-income residents
Developed and owned by the
Fort Collins Housing Authority
Eugene, OR
Eugene, OR
• Approx. 3,000 homeless
• “Tiny homes”
• Opportunity Village/Emerald
Village
• Homeless camps/rest stops
• Car camping
• Service station
• HMIS
• Veteran’s housing
14
15
Opportunity Village, Eugene
Eugene, OR
16
St. Vincent de Paul Service Station
Rest Stops
Car Camping
“Tiny Homes”
17
Opportunity Village
Eugene
Other examples
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City, UT
• 247 chronically homeless
• City does not provide direct service
• 1 FTE – Homeless Services Coordinator
• Homeless Outreach Service Team (HOST)
• Increased Police presence in Depot District focusing on
illegal behavior
• Clean Teams- Daily Cleaning
• Veterans Court
• Homeless Court
• Homeless Services Coordinator
18
Stepped up
patrols in Depot
District focus on
pragmatic
solutions and
compassion
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City, UT
19
What Salt Lake City did was simple: It
created attractive housing that street
people actually longed to live in,
provided the new residents with plenty of
on-site counseling to help them with
problems such as drug abuse and
unemployment, and put one person in
charge who could get government and
nonprofit agencies to work together.
Funding Process
Flowchart Process
20
Funders
Service Providers
People
in Need
Enforcement
Recidivism Independent Living
Intake
Screening
Sentencing
Alternatives
Courts/Special
Agency Sessions
People
breaking
law
21
Sentencing
Alternatives
City Funding – Housing Projects
Homelessness Prevention
Housing Provider/Project 2014 2013 2012 2011 Total
FCHA-Redtail Ponds Supportive Housing $350,000 $455,000 $586,077 $1,391,077
FCHA-Tenant based Rental Assistancefor
Community Dual DisordersTreatment $156,240 $156,240
FCHA-Village on Redwood $1,312,745 $1,312,745
Housing Catalyst (FCHA)-Cunningham
Corner $38,191 $899,651 $1,072,811 $2,010,653
Neighbor to Neighbor -Coachlight Plaza $43,257 $34,515 $77,772
Villages-Village on Matuka $380,000 $380,000
Totals $1,744,193 $934,166 $1,684,051 $586,077 $4,948,487
22
City Funding for Public Service
Public Service Funding for Homelessness or Homelessness Prevention
Service Provider Name 2014 2013 2012 2011 Total
Catholic Charities Senior Services $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $11,331 $56,331
Catholic Charities Shelter & Rapid
Rehousing $40,000 $40,000 $40,000 $40,000 $160,000
Colorado Health Network $18,514 $14,240 $15,000 $24,500 $72,254
Crossroads Safe.-Advocacy $39,000 $31,885 $39,853 $42,202 $152,940
Disabled Resource Services $26,261 $26,186 $23,370 $28,442 $104,259
Homeless Prevention Initiative- Rent
Assistance $45,000 $45,000 $45,000 $45,000 $180,000
Matthews House-Youth Prog. $34,158 $32,229 $27,000 $27,639 $121,026
Neighbor to Neighbor - Housing Counseling $38,630 $33,175 $29,760 $40,175 $141,740
Neighbor to Neighbor – Rent assistance $36,125 $30,000 $25,000 $25,000 $116,125
Project Self Sufficiency-Services for Parents $30,000 $33,000 $22,000 $22,000 $107,000
Timberline Church Serve 6.8-Murphy
Center $18,533 $18,533
Touchstone-CDDT Program $31,328 $28,380 $14,000 $73,708
Touchstone-Mental Health-Murphy $18,000 $22,500 $10,000 $50,500
Totals $390,549 $323,215 $320,363 $320,289 $1,354,416
23
New Service Provider programs
• One Village One Family
• Genesis Project
• Faith Family Hospitality
• Municipal Court Special Agency Sessions*
• Matthews House Community Life Center*
• Winter Overflow Shelter*
24
* City Funded
Other New Housing
• Governor’s Office Permanent Supportive
Housing Toolkit
• Community Capital Improvement Program
offer – second permanent supportive housing
project
25
City’s Role
How
• Funder
• Convener
• Facilitator
• Enforce Laws
Who
• Social Sustainability
• Police
• Neighborhood Services
• Municipal Court
• City Attorney’s Office
• Fort Collins Housing
Authority
• Poudre Fire Authority
26
Next Steps
• Homeward 2020 – Community Summit
– Around January 20, 21, 22 for first session
– First week of February for second session
• DDA, homeless providers, City, others – starting an
advisory committee
• HMIS system – City funded budget item
27
Direction Sought
28
• Does Council agree that the current City role should
continue at the same level of funding, facilitating, and
convening?
• Would Council like to see additional services provided
by the City?
• Does Council need additional information or have any
suggestions for changes?
29
Back Up Slides
Aggregated Process Flow
30
Re-designed Process Flow
31
Danbury, CT
Danbury, CT
• 148 people homeless
• Multi-pronged approach – some direct service
• City-run shelter, rental assistance, and day center
• Housing First model
• Partnered to develop Plan to End Chronic
Homelessness
• Downtown businesses concerns
32
Saint Paul, MN
Saint Paul, MN
• 780 people homeless
• City does not provide direct service
• Coordinated efforts
• City distributes HUD funding and sets aside funds
• St. Paul Police Department recognized for program
• Effort to end homelessness among veterans
33
Burlington, VT
Burlington, VT
• 537 people homeless
• City does not provide direct service
• Collaborate with Chittenden County Continuum of
Care
• Developed 10-year plan to end homelessness
• Housing Trust Funds
34
Nashville, TN
Nashville, TN
• 2,301 people homeless
• City does not provide direct service
• Metropolitan Homelessness Commission
• How’s Nashville campaign
• Online directory of services
• Private landlord partnerships
• Cold Weather Community Response Plan
• Adopt A Meter program
35
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
• 5,918 people homeless
• City does provide direct services:
– 3 FTE caseworkers
– Human Services Department
– Affordable Housing and Homeless Shelter
– Summer and Winter Respite programs
– Homeless Programs Section
36
Recommendations/Options
• Continue to support/fund housing and services
that are proven (chronic and situational)
• Continue to partner, convene, and facilitate
community services/inter-agency task force
• Provide specific responses such as lockers at
Murphy Center
37
Recommendations/Options
• Other ideas from other communities (?)
–Camping
– Tiny homes
–Ambassadors
• Outcomes from Community Summit
• Impact of upcoming projects
38
0
$28,442 $104,259
HPI-Emerg. Rent Assistance $45,000 $45,000 $45,00
0
$45,000 $180,000
Matthews House-Youth Prog. $34,158 $32,229 $27,00
0
$27,639 $121,026
N2N - Housing Counseling $38,630 $33,175 $29,76 $40,175 $141,740