This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
In previous years, HOPE (Homeless Outreach Providing Encouragement) has offered shelter to Longmont residents experiencing homelessness from November to April.
Beginning on May 1, 2019, HOPE along with journey and FaithPoint churches will keep overnight shelters open through the warmer months as well.
The decision to extend services was made because HOPE assessed that a significant barrier to clients being able to retain employment, attend appointments, and obtain housing was the lack of a safe and legal place to sleep from May to October.
HOPE services are offered to those assigned to Longmont navigation services through the Boulder County coordinated entry program. In the last year, HOPE has helped 17 clients transition into permanent housing.
"While we are proud of those successes, we believe as an organization that the number could be higher if the overnight homeless services center in Longmont was open year-round," states HOPE in a press release.
The transition to year-round shelter services is the first for HOPE and the city of Longmont. Additionally, this change will begin the journey to eliminating the disparity in Boulder County services for those suffering from homelessness. Clients assigned to the Boulder navigation system have had these services year-round and HOPE feels it is time for Longmont clients to reap similar benefits.
“We at HOPE are excited about this opportunity to better serve our clients throughout the year. We have learned through numerous conversations with people experiencing homelessness that a significant gap exists for them in the six warmer months and that offering basic services like shelter during that time is crucial to helping them move forward and get back on their feet," says HOPE Executive Director, Joseph Zanovitch.
The expanded services are possible due to commitments made by journey and FaithPoint churches. Additionally HOPE received $130,279.50 from the City of Longmont for the months of May-October. There are still additional costs of providing sheltering services for the summer months and HOPE is still seeking donations.
