By Adam Sennott
For decades laws criminalizing homelessness have been on the rise, but recent statements from the Department of Justice and the Department of Housing and Urban Development might stop this trend.
In recent summers, the Denver Police have regularly swept the banks of the Platte River, rousting homeless people who have violated the city’s ordinance against unauthorized camping and removing them and their belongings.
By Matt Davidson, VOICE vendor
Just the other day, on a very chilly morning, I was out of money and out of newspapers. It was a Sunday, so I couldn’t go get more papers, and I was cold. My jacket was doing its job by keeping my arms and chest warm, but my ears and head were cold, as I didn’t have a cap.
What does homelessness look like?
When you picture homelessness, you might get a mental image of the people waiting outside the Denver Rescue Mission’s Lawrence Street Shelter. Maybe you picture a man, 40-60 years old, bearded, and in dirty or disheveled clothing. That’s certainly what many people still picture when they think of homelessness.
By Linette Hidalgo | Photo by Sarah Harvey
JJ Jones is a bright spot along the stretch of Broadway where he regularly sells the Denver VOICE. With his yellow baseball cap and wide smile, he exudes a childlike happiness and enthusiasm. Though primarily wheelchair-bound, JJ has a positive attitude and undeniable work ethic.
By Danielle Krolewicz
Last year, Colorado state legislature passed HB 14-1061, a law banning debtor’s prison practices by mandating due process protections to prevent courts from jailing individuals who cannot pay court fines and fees.
Research and Questions by Sonia Christensen
Much of what we think we know about homelessness is based on misinformation and stereotypes. Can you separate fact from fiction?
By Jamie Swinnerton | Photos by Giles Clasen
Families with children are the largest group of people experiencing homelessness in the Denver metro area. They are often considered to be the “hidden” homeless.
There is a misconception today that homelessness in non-urban areas does not exist because it cannot be easily spotted. Homelessness in many suburban and rural areas exists—but it is often hidden.
By Danielle Krolewicz | Photos by Giles Clasen
In a five-story former military barracks on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, Comitis Crisis Center (CCC) has 139 beds for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. It is the only place in Aurora to offer 24/7 emergency shelter.
Photo and Text by Linette Hidalgo
Ann Bitela does not typically draw much attention to herself. She has a noticeably gentle and unassuming nature, yet a brilliant flicker of strength and determination is evident in her character upon meeting her. Her bright eyes and kind smile reveal compassion and sincerity. Ann’s sense of gratitude and perseverance make her stand out among Denver VOICE vendors.