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Housing and Homelessness Guide

In Denver, we believe that everyone in our community deserves to be healthy, housed, and connected. We know that when someone is housed stably, they are better able to connect to resources. Housing makes it easier to find and keep a job, get and stay healthy, address behavioral and mental health issues, and feel safe and secure.

The path to getting people re-housed isn't linear. Each of us has a unique set of circumstances that influence which resources might be needed or available. Denver's goal is for episodes of homelessness to be rare, and when they do happen, for them to be brief and one time. Find resources to help if you are on the verge of losing housing, are experiencing homelessness, or are trying to help someone else.

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Housing

Everybody needs safe and stable housing to thrive. Find long-term housing resources, such as affordable housing. You will also find resources to prevent eviction and foreclosure. Plus, get help with rent and utilities.

Shelter Assistance

Find how to get into a short-term option, like a shelter, motel room, or Safe Outdoor Space. We have options that work whether you are single, want to stay with your partner, have minor children, or have a disabling condition.

Children and Parents

Are you navigating homelessness as a parent or family? Find childcare and education resources. Plus, find out how to get free access to recreation centers, swimming pools, and cultural facilities.

People With Disabilities

We offer support to help you maintain your health, safety, and independence.

Financial Resources

Get the resources to gain long-term financial stability, such as getting help paying rent and utilities. You'll also find property tax relief, financial planning, and cash assistance.

Health & Medical

Get help navigating your medical needs and health insurance. Learn how to apply for Medicaid or other low-cost insurance options. Plus, get rides to your medical appointments, counseling, and mental health services. You can also get help with a disabling condition, substance misuse treatment, and more.

Food Assistance

Get connected with food pantries and other food assistance. Resources include before- and after-school food programs and nutrition support.

Jobs & Employment

Let us help connect you with organizations hiring in the Mile High City. This includes jobs geared toward groups like youth, veterans, and people with disabilities. Resources also include job training and help with resumes and interviewing.

Older Adults Assistance

Get connected with old age pension, long-term care, and other assistance benefits. Plus, get free access to Denver's recreation center and pools.

Pet Needs

Navigating homelessness with a pet can be challenging. Find temporary shelter for your pet, and get free veterinary care, pet food, and supplies. We also offer some limited shelter options that allow pets to stay with you.

Veterans

There are several specialized programs and resources for veterans who are experiencing homelessness. Get connected with the Denver Veteran's Administration (VA), and get help with employment, shelter, and housing.

Other Resources

We've got even more resources! Find more information on property storage/removal, resources for domestic violence, access to computers, hygiene and clothing referrals, laundry facilities, and more.

How We're Helping

Latest News

Denver Finalizes Purchase of Two Key Buildings

Published on March 18, 2024

The City and County of Denver today moved closer to finalizing the purchase of two key buildings. Following the approval of two Certificates of Participation (COP) transactions at Denver City Council today, the city can finalize the financing to purchase the former Embassy Suites at 7525 E. Hampden Ave. and the Denver Post Building at 101 West Colfax Ave.

Tagged as: , Budget, Business & Economy, Finance, Housing and Homelessness, Housing Stability, Nonprofit Engagement, Press release

Denver Provides Loan to Stabilize Housing Options at Mobile Home Park

Published on March 11, 2024

Denver’s affordable housing preservation efforts took a pioneering step forward today with City Council approval of a loan agreement to help mobile home park residents cooperatively own the homes they’ve lived in for years.

Tagged as: , Housing Stability

Denver Activates Severe Weather Shelter Tuesday, Feb. 27

Published on February 26, 2024

With temperatures expected to reach overnight lows below 20 degrees, the Denver Department of Housing Stability (HOST) is opening severe weather shelter from 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27 to 9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 28 at the McNichols Civic Center Building, 144 W. Colfax Ave.

Tagged as: , Housing Stability

Five-Year Strategic Planning

Volunteer talking with a disabled homeless person In a city where more than 115,000 households are struggling to keep a roof over their heads, and in which more than 5,000 people are experiencing homelessness, it is more important than ever for us to prioritize our citywide commitment to affordable housing.

The Denver Department of Housing Stability (HOST) has spent more than a year engaging our community to help set the direction for our work over the next five years, from 2022 to 2026.

STAR Program

Support Team Assisted Response (STAR) Program

Denver Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) is expanding the Support Team Assisted Response (STAR) Program, which has been piloted by the Denver Department of Safety since 2020. The STAR Program deploys Emergency Response Teams that include Emergency Medical Technicians and Behavioral Health Clinicians to engage individuals experiencing crises related to mental health issues, poverty, homelessness, and substance abuse.

To request support from the STAR team, please call 9-1-1 if in Denver, or call the Denver Police Department's non-emergency line at 720-913-2000 and an operator will dispatch the most appropriate, available response.

Learn more about the STAR Program