The Denver Department of Housing Stability (HOST) has responded to an audit criticizing the city's shelter system, stating that many of the suggested improvements are already in the works. An audit released by the Auditor’s Office called attention to areas needing enhancement in Denver's approach to homelessness, but according to HOST, the audit overlooks significant progress already made. HOST leadership, through their testimony at the audit committee hearing, maintains that their current strategic work plan includes a robust set of strategies for an effective shelter system, already been put into action since spring.
According to the City and County of Denver, the city's All in Mile High program touted success with more than 2,150 individuals helped indoors and upwards of 800 people connected to permanent housing. These strides are complimented by the closure of over 350 city blocks to camping, which aims at reducing unsheltered homelessness. Although the audit brought to light several recommendations, HOST argues that the lack of recognition for progress already accomplished, such as the implementation of safety measures in All in Mile High sites, represents a significant oversight.
Further details revealed by HOST include improvements to shelter services provider contracts set for 2025, with highlighted changes encompassing aspects like safety plans, grievance procedures, and consumer input. These updates, stemming from negotiations initiated earlier this year, involve strict requirements for provider accountability and transparency. The implementation of survey kiosks at All in Mile High sites is one of the measures dedicated to gauging the experiences of individuals taking advantage of these services.
Honing in on issues of safety and security, HOST has expedited efforts following the unsettling incidents at the DoubleTree shelter last spring. Measures constitute a seven-point action plan, including "management, staffing, physical enhancements, badging system, security, police presence and case management," all aimed at preventing future tragedies, as per the City and County of Denver. The audit, HOST contends, does not fairly represent the significant impact of the All in Mile High unsheltered homelessness initiative on the community, with over 1,600 people moved indoors from unsheltered conditions and tent encampments permanently dismantled over vast urban stretches.
HOST's approach has gained national attention, being recognized by the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness as a best practice regarding encampment response. Backing this commendation, recent statistics from the Metro Denver Homeless Initiative point to an 11% decrease in Denver's unsheltered homelessness, marking the most substantial reduction recorded in the city's history. Nonetheless, HOST acknowledges the audit's findings and accepts that ongoing improvements are paramount to ensure the well-being and security of Denver's most vulnerable residents.
