County Commissioners have approved an additional $900,000 in annual funding for the Boulder Shelter for the Homeless starting in 2024, a news release said.
The shelter, which has seen an increase in people using its services, is experiencing a crucial funding gap for staff, utilities, food, and other resources as costs continue to rise.
“Homelessness is a complex issue, which requires cooperation between all levels of government, the non-profit sector, and the business community to address,” said Commissioner Ashley Stolzmann. “However, the immediate needs of Boulder Shelter, which serves so many community members, are clear, which is why the Boulder County Commissioners have made a commitment to provide these crucial funds.”
Boulder Shelter is a partner with the county, City of Boulder, and City of Longmont through Homeless Solutions for Boulder County (HSBC). Through this partnership, the county has already provided $1.156 million this year alone to Boulder Shelter to fund case management and other services that assist people with accessing housing and other human services through HSBC, the release added.
In the last five years, Boulder County has budgeted over $6.5 million in funding for the shelter, including awarding $2.37 million of Worthy Cause funds. Worthy Cause funds are limited to capital funding as required by the voter-approved Worthy Cause sales and use tax.
“Boulder County continues to work with partners to create long-term solutions to help individuals and their families obtain stable housing,” said Commissioner Claire Levy. “Boulder Shelter provides an essential service in providing short-term support for people experiencing homelessness while also providing a place for people to access services and strategies that will help them find permanent housing.”
Homeless Solutions for Boulder County was established in 2017 to addressing homelessness across the county by prioritizing helping individuals and families experiencing homelessness obtain a stable housing solution as quickly as possible. Visit the HSBC website for more information.
“We know affordability and the continual rise in cost of living are growing issues for our community,” said Commissioner Marta Loachamin. “The increasing numbers of people accessing services, such as the Boulder Shelter, are just one indicator of needs impacting Boulder County. To create real change and solutions to homelessness, our residents must have access to more housing, which is why the Boulder County Commissioners are working hard to increase the amount of affordable and attainable housing in Boulder County.”
