Homeless shelter’s new elevator made possible through community development funds
Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper, Denver Roman Catholic Archbishop Charles J. Chaput and other officials participated in a ribbon cutting event today to celebrate the opening of a new elevator at Catholic Charities Samaritan House homeless shelter, located at 2301 Lawrence St. in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood.
The Denver Office of Economic Development provided $150,000 in federal Community Development Block Grant funding for the elevator’s purchase and installation. The new elevator greatly improves accessibility of the building for the homeless. It replaces the facility’s original elevator, which was frequently out of service in recent years due to maintenance issues.
“Our City is fortunate to have such a strong advocate organization for fighting homelessness in which to make this community development investment,” said Hickenlooper. “For 23 years, Samaritan House has made a lasting impact in guiding thousands of homeless individuals and families to self sufficiency. This investment helps ensure the continued success of the facility for years to come.”
Built in 1986 by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Denver, Samaritan House was specifically designed and constructed for the homeless. The three-level facility can accommodate more than 320 men, women and children nightly. Residents receive a bed, food, clothing and various services on site, including case management, medical care, and referrals for employment, social service assistance and educational opportunities.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program provides annual grants to carry out a wide range of community development activities directed toward revitalizing neighborhoods, economic development, and providing improved community facilities and services. The City and County of Denver receives an annual allocation of CDBG funds that are distributed throughout the community through a competitive funding process.
The Denver Office of Economic Development is dedicated to advancing economic prosperity for the City of Denver, its businesses, neighborhoods and residents. Working with a wide variety of community partners, OED operates to create a local environment that stimulates balanced growth through job creation, business assistance, housing options, neighborhood redevelopment and the development of a skilled workforce.
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