Regis University to Host Denver’s Fourth Safe Outdoor Space
By Robert Davis
Regis University announced on May 5 that it is partnering with the Denver Mayor’s Office and the Colorado Village Collaborative (CVC) to open a safe outdoor space (SOS) for people experiencing homelessness starting June 1.
The 19,000 sq. ft. facility will be located on the university’s northwest Denver campus at 3333 Regis Blvd. The site will operate for six months and have 24-hour staff and security.
Regis said they anticipate the space will provide shelter for up to 60 people.
“Ours is a faith that does justice, a faith that calls on us to commit ourselves to combat indifference, walk with the poor, and foster dignity among all peoples,” University President the Rev. John P. Fitzgibbons said in a statement. “We were given the opportunity to provide a safe and secure temporary home for those suddenly cast onto the streets through no fault of their own. We embrace and welcome those who need an extra measure of human kindness and concern during these difficult times.”
Cole Chandler, CVC’s executive director, described the spaces as a “critical” component to the city’s response to its growth of homelessness.
“America was facing a housing and homelessness crisis before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, but that crisis has only been exacerbated in the past 12 months and its impacts will be most acutely realized by our unsheltered neighbors in the months ahead,” Chandler said.
Denver currently has two safe outdoor spaces in the Capitol Hill neighborhood that can serve a total of 60 unhoused people. One space is designed to serve homeless women and those who identify as a woman.
However, both sites are scheduled to wind down by the end of this month. In February, Denver City Council approved nearly $900,000 to operate two additional safe spaces until the end of 2021.
Currently, CVC has plans to launch a 50-person space at the historic Park Hill United Methodist Church. Alongside the Regis space, this would give CVC the ability to offer shelter, services, and resources for up to 110 unhoused people in the city.
All safe space residents receive cots, food, wellness checks, and assistance for permanent housing. The SOS sites offer bathrooms, hand sinks, clean drinking water, commercial or personal laundry services, and internet.
Chandler said he will hold three informational meetings about the new outdoor spaces. One meeting will be held at 1595 Pearl Street at the existing SOS site. The other two meetings will be held via Zoom on May 15 and May 20.
“We're grateful to the leadership and support of Regis University for taking sacred action to bring justice and mercy to our sisters and brothers on the streets. We look forward to working together to leave a lasting, positive impact upon our residents, the Regis Campus, and the broader Northwest Denver community,” Chandler said.