$ 2 SUGGESTED DONATION @DenverVOICE ALAMOSA’S SANCTIONED HOMELESS CAMP IS WORKING ALTHOUGH NOT EVERYONE IN THE AREA’S UNHOUSED COMMUNITY ANTS TO LIVE THERE, ALAMOSA’S SANCTIONED CAMP TAKES CARE OF ITS PEOPLE. ONE VENDOR’S REGULAR CUSTOMER WRITES HIM A POEM. PAGE 4 VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA VOICE VENDOR EXPLAINS HOW VOA SERVES DENVER’S UNHOUSED COMMUNITY. PAGE 5 HOMELESS IN GRAND JUNCTION NEW RESTRICTIONS ARE MAKING IT EVEN MORE DIFFICULT FOR UNHOUSED INDIVIDUALS. PAGE 6 VOICES OF OUR COMMUNITY PAGES 4, 5, 12 EVENTS / PUZZLES PAGE 13 RESOURCES PAGE 15 JANUARY 2025 | Vol.30 Issue 1 SINCE 1997, WE HAVE PROVIDED AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE TO WORK. DONATE TODAY TO ENSURE OUR VENDORS CONTINUE TO HAVE JOBS. (DENVERVOICE.ORG) VENDOR PROFILE: JERRY ROSEN FROM YOUR VENDOR: LILELK DYAPP JONES HAS CHOSEN TO LIVE IN HIDING AND NOT PARTICIPATE IN THE ST. BENEDICT ENCAMPMENT. | PHOTO BY GILES CLASEN
EDITOR’S NOTE HELLO, 2025! The Denver VOICE would not have made it to this point without all of you, who donated to the VOICE or supported our vendors by purchasing papers from them, so thank you! I’d also like to thank ELISABETH MONAGHAN MANAGING EDITOR those who have donated their time over the past few years, starting with past board members Josh, Nikki, Craig, Lori, Jeff, Michelle, Julia, Zephyr, Chris, and Donovan, for your time and patience. While most board members commit to two years, each of these folks stayed on longer to ensure stability during a chaotic period for both the world and our organization. Thank you to our current board members, Robert, Bella, Charity, Cabal, Eduardo, Antonio, and Mackenzie, for jumping in when things were looking dicey (to say the least). I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your willingness to listen to the vendors, learn about the street paper culture, identify what we’re doing well or could be doing better, and strategize how to turn things around. Thanks to Hannah Bragg, who left her role as graphic designer of 13 years to take on new adventures (and I’d like to add a heartfelt welcome to Andrew Fraieli, who has stepped in as our art director). I am grateful to Aaron, for being an exceptional human and excellent volunteer copy editor and to Adrian, Frank, Jamie, Giles, Robert, Alex, Jacob, and Cat for their dedication to making sure our vendors and others living in the margins have a platform to share their stories. I’m not sure what 2025 has in store, but I do know that because we are surrounded by a community of people who want to ensure that everyone has access to affordable housing healthcare, and humane treatment, we will not be alone in facing whatever challenges or celebrating whatever victories come our way. DENVERVOICE.ORG E.ORG THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS JACOB RICHARDS is a community organizer and writer on the western slope of Colorado. His columns have appeared across the West including The Denver Post, Salt Lake City Tribune, and The Daily Sentinel. When not working in the wilderness, he is working on a project called “A People’s History of the Grand Valley.” MANAGING EDITOR Elisabeth Monaghan DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Giles Clasen CREATIVE DIRECTOR Andrew Fraieli @OCE GILES CLASEN is a freelance photojournalist who is a regular contributor to the VOICE. Several of the photos he’s taken for the VOICE have won national and international awards. He also served on the VOICE’s Board of Directors. ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS Giles Clasen Bethany Cochran Jacob Richards WRITERS Lando Allen Giles Clasen Raelene Johnson Jacob Richards Jerry Rosen Charles Spring Hus Williams Rodney Woolfolk WHAT WE DO The Denver VOICE empowers homeless, impoverished, and transient individuals by creating job opportunities through our vendor program. We give our vendors a job and help them tell their stories; this creates a space for them to be part of a community again. Vendors purchase copies of the VOICE for 50 cents each at our distribution center. This money pays for a portion of our production costs. Vendors can buy as many papers as they want; they then sell those papers to the public for a suggested $2 donation. The difference in cost ($1.50) is theirs to keep. WHO WE ARE The Denver VOICE is a nonprofit that publishes a monthly street newspaper. Our vendors are men and women in the Denver metro area experiencing homelessness and poverty. Since 2007, we have put more than 4,600 vendors to work. Our mission is to facilitate a dialogue addressing the roots of homelessness by telling stories of people whose lives are impacted by poverty and homelessness and to offer economic, educational, and empowerment opportunities for the impoverished community. We are an award-winning publication, a member of the International Network of Street Papers and the Colorado Press Association, and we abide by the Society of Professional Journalists code of ethics. With the money they make selling the VOICE, vendors are able to pay for their basic needs. Our program provides vendors with an immediate income and a support group of dedicated staff members and volunteers. Vendors are independent contractors who receive no base pay. EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT editor@denvervoice.org VENDOR PROGRAM program@denvervoice.org • (720) 320-2155 ADVERTISING ads@denvervoice.org MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 1931, Denver CO 80201 VENDOR OFFICE 989 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, CO 80204 OFFICE HOURS: Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Robert Davis, President Isabella Colletti, Secretary Michael Burkley Mackenzie Langley Ashni Pabley Eduardo Platon Charity Von Guinness Cabal Yarne 2 DENVER VOICE January 2025 STAFF CONTRIBUTORS BOARD CONTACT US
WINTER WISH LIST Drop-offs are accepted Wednesdays from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., or by appointment. NEW ITEMS NEEDED: • Socks • Toiletries (individual or travel-size) • Toothpaste, deodorant • Chapstick, sunscreen • Hand warmers GENTLY-USED ITEMS NEEDED: • Men’s shoes or boots (sizes 8-12) • Men’s jackets (sizes L, XL, XXL) • Women’s jackets (sizes M, L, XL) • Backpacks, carrier bags • USB-C charging cables If you would like to help out a specific vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! VENMO YOUR VENDOR: @DenverVOICE HOW TO HELP The money we take in from vendors helps us cover a portion of our printing costs, but we depend largely on donations from individuals, businesses, and foundations to help us pay our rent and keep the lights on. 1 4 GET THE WORD OUT We rely on grassroots marketing to get the word out about what we do. Talk to people about our organization and share us with your network. Support us on DONATE Donations to the Denver VOICE are tax-deductible. Go to denvervoice.org to give a one-time or recurring donation. You can also mail a check to: Denver VOICE | P.O. Box 1931 | Denver, CO 80201 3 VOLUNTEER We need volunteers to help with everything from newspaper distribution to event planning and management. Contact program@denvervoice.org for volunteering information. 5 SUBSCRIBE If you are unable to regularly purchase a newspaper from our vendors, please consider a subscription. We ask subscribers to support our program with a 12-month pledge to give $10 a month, or a one-time donation of $120. Subscriptions help us cover our costs AND provide an amazing opportunity to those who need it most. Go to denvervoice.org/subscriptions for more information. @denverVOICE 2 ADVERTISE Our readership is loyal, well-educated, and socially concerned. Readers view purchasing the paper as a way to immediately help a person who is poor or homeless while supporting long-term solutions to end poverty. If you are interested in placing an ad or sponsoring a section of the paper, please contact us about rates at ads@denvervoice.org. January 2025 DENVER VOICE 3
VENDOR PROFILE ASK A VENDOR THIS COLUMN IS A PLACE FOR DENVER VOICE VENDORS TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS FROM OUR READERS AND STAFF. THIS MONTH’S QUESTION WAS SUGGESTED BY DENVER VOICE VENDOR RAELENE JOHNSON Q What are your hopes and dreams for 2025? A LANDO ALLEN Today, I don’t have a good feeling about my goals. With the VOICE almost closing down, Trump going back to the White House, and me not [accomplishing] my goals, I have to get something done this year, but I really don’t know where to start. I want to sell more Denver VOICE papers. I’ve got to start doing my music and art and want to save more money for my houseboat. I worry about Trump doing bad things that will kill my job. I just want to work hard and to get more going to stay safe. DENVER VOICE VENDOR JERRY ROSEN RAELENE JOHNSON For the next year, I hope and pray for peace for us in the USA and around the world. My wish is that everyone will find love and happiness. Let’s be kind and loving to each other. That will make all of our lives better. JERRY ROSEN My hope is to get more sales for the Denver VOICE, to be a better person in many ways, and to achieve much happiness in many ways. CHARLES SPRING To find a nice woman and start a long-term relationship now that I’ve finally got all the other aspects of my life in order. HUS WILLIAMS My hopes and dreams for 2025 are for God to continue to bless me, my family, and my loved ones, for my finances to keep increasing, and for nothing but positive people, energy, and opportunities to come into my life. RODNEY K. WOOLFOLK I hope and dream that I will finally receive my SSDI on January 14, 2025!!! EDITOR’S NOTE: WHILE THIS IS NOT A TYPICAL VENDOR PROFILE, WE WANTED TO PUBLISH THIS THOUGHTFUL POEM BY KENDALL HIGGINS, ONE OF JERRY ROSEN’S REGULAR CUSTOMERS. DEAR JERRY, THE MAN I SEE ON THE STREET SELLING PAPERS BY KENDALL HIGGINS Dear Jerry, I want you to know I see you Every month, selling papers Somewhere along Pearl Street I see you standing there Reclaiming your voice on a street corner Sharing what you are able to with the world It revitalizes me I don’t know who you are the rest of your days, but I see you every month Working Moving your life onward In the glimpse I get of you Selling papers Smiling I see someone deserving of love I don’t know what past versions of yourself You identify with, but In the one I see Inherent goodness shines forth So, thank you for sharing that Voice on the street corner You are a beacon Whose light ripples onward You remind me of the inherent goodness in humanity, The cruciality of continuing on Through you, I remember the world is deserving of more love, and how I can stand up on my own street corner To share my voice for that too 4 DENVER VOICE January 2025
COMMUNITY PROFILE VOA’S DENVER OFFICE. | PHOTO BY GILES CLASEN HOW VOA SERVICES MY COMMUNITY BY CHARLES SPRING DENVER VOICE VENDOR I’VE BEEN LIVING at the VOA Sunset Park Apartments, which is a lowincome housing complex, since October 17. For the most part, everyone is very friendly, and housekeeping and maintenance keep the building clean and working right. Most of the workers also live in the building and work as volunteers. There are only one or two employees working that, in my opinion, are rude and obnoxious, but there are always a few bad apples no matter where you go. On the other hand, Ranae F., the assistant property manager, is the nicest one in the bunch. She helped me get everything done and organized when I moved in, and she explained everything and showed me around the building. She even made my father feel at home when he came to visit recently. She is the friendliest person here, very outgoing and nice to everyone. The VOA has been a great help to me, providing me with a place to live and a community to make friends. They hold a bunch of community activities at my complex every day to help the people in the building feel welcome and give them opportunities to converse with others in the community. On Mondays and Fridays, they hold BINGO games and give out prizes to the winners. On Tuesdays, they hold tech classes to help learn computer skills. They also hold arts and crafts classes, dancing lessons, and other activities to keep the building’s community active and engaged. Every day there is something new and fun to do. They also provide free morning coffee and lunches to their tenants every day. The Volunteers of America was founded on March 8, 1896, by Ballington and Maud Booth. It’s a faith-based nonprofit charity organization that provides affordable housing and a great number of other assistance services primarily to lowincome or homeless people throughout the United States. Its headquarters is in Alexandria Virginia, the organization includes 32 affiliates and serves approximately 1.5 million people each year in 46 states. The VOA Colorado branch began operating in Denver shortly after its founding in 1896. The first VOA programs in Colorado were in Boulder, Leadville, Pueblo, and, soon after, Denver. By the turn of the century, VOA soup kitchens fed the hungry, and sleeping space was provided for the homeless. The faith-based, nonprofit organization provides material and spiritual aid to those in need. The organization’s mission is to identify and serve the needs of the most vulnerable individuals and families in the community. VOA Colorado supports many populations, including children, families, veterans, and seniors. The Denver headquarters for VOA is at 2660 Larimer St. The organization also has the “Sunset Tower” and “Sunset Park” (which is where I reside), “Michael Kern Kitchen” on Larimer Street, and the donation and distribution center at 2877 Lawrence Street. The VOA on Lawrence Street also hands out bagged lunches, and on the last Friday of the month, they serve hot food and give clothing, shoes, and hygiene items to the homeless. When I was homeless I attended one of those events and received help. With help from the City of Denver, the VOA plans to break ground on a five-story shelter to serve families and veterans experiencing homelessness. The shelter will replace the VOA Colorado Theodora Family Hotel, a noncongregate hotel, at 4855 W. Colfax Ave. The replacement shelter will have more capacity and services to meet the growing community needs and is expected to be completed in early 2025. The VOA has been around for a long time and is sure to stay around for even longer, they have helped millions of people and will continue to help millions more. January 2025 DENVER VOICE 5
LOCAL STORY VICKI SPENCER, WHO SAID SHE HAS BEEN HOMELESS IN GRAND JUNCTION FOR ABOUT 20 YEARS, SPEAKS AT PUBLIC COMMENT AT THE CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING ON NOV. 25. | PHOTO BY BETHANY COCHRAN HOMELESSNESS IN GRAND JUNCTION: A STATE OF EMERGENCY BY JACOB RICHARDS OUTSIDE THE SPECIAL MEETING held by the Grand Junction City Council on November 25, Melissa Lujan showed off a pink slip of paper. “Twenty-one of us were ticketed today,” said Lujan. “We have nowhere to go. That’s why I’m here.” “[The police] might be taking my things right now, but things have to be said,” Lujan explained. “Other people would be here, but they are worried about more harassment.” The “ticket” was a formal warning, not a ticket. It was issued by the police and stated that Lujan could not reenter the Unhoused Resource Center for three months. Lujan said she has received 17 tickets since she came to Grand Junction eight months ago from Montrose. The Resource Center is a large event-style tent where the unhoused can get their basic needs met and be connected with other services. Referring to a reaction to outrage sparked by the City of Grand Junction’s closure of Whitman Park in September of 2023, Council Member Cody Kennedy said, “It was a ‘kneejerk’ reaction,” echoing comments from the public at the November 25 special meeting Since the Resource Center opened, more and more people. have taken to occupying the alleys and rights-of-way Center. Many seek to remain close to resources and bathrooms but would prefer not to be in an institutional setting. Council Member Kennedy called the Resource Center a “crack house” in an October 5 article in The Daily Sentinel. Business owners also complained, and the fate of the Resource Center was up for debate. Forty people spoke during public comment. Most wanted the Resource Center to remain open. Many asked the city to reopen Whitman Park, and a few pointed out the need for more housing and shelter beds. The Council voted to amend the lease the City has with the Resource Center, shortening it by a year – including the rights-of-way into the lease – so that the facility can prevent people from loitering and camping outside, and reducing the “cure period” for the facility to fix any violations of the lease from 30 days to 15 days. Bill Wade, executive director of Homeward Bound of the Grand Valley, the nonprofit that operates the Resource Center, also presented several changes they are making, which will include limiting the number of people that can be outside, closing the Center for lunch, and requiring swipe card access to limit the number of people coming and going from the facility. These changes will move more people outside of the facility and into the neighborhood, where conflicts with businesses and residents happen. “Where are they going to go?” asked Council Member Scott Beilfuss. Beilfuss has long advocated for housingbased rather than displacement-based strategies to solve homelessness. “We are all owning this. The state’s not helping anymore, the Feds aren’t helping anymore,” said Beilfuss. “We need some help. We need to declare a state of emergency for homelessness for the winter,” Beilfuss said. Vickie Spencer is 61 years old and has been homeless in Grand Junction for the past 20 years. She struggled to get her wheelchair to the microphone. “Please don’t close the Resource Center. And please give us our park back … And let us put up tents so we can stay warm and not die on the streets,” pleaded Spencer. Spencer was also among the 21 people ticketed for camping near the Resource Center. “I don’t know where I’m going to sleep tonight, but I made a choice to come to this meeting,” she said. “It wears you out, having to hide from the police. I need resources; I can’t walk all over town,” she said. • In the days after the meeting, Spencer, Lujan, and the other occupants of the encampment who were ticketed relocated to just across the road from the Resource Center. 6 DENVER VOICE January 2025
LOCAL STORY This prompted the City Council to re-open discussion on the lease and take more public comment at the December 4 regular City Council meeting. Nothing changed. After the public meeting, the camp was ticketed and moved again — less than a block away. It now sits across the street from the Catholic Outreach soup kitchen. The soup kitchen is the elephant in the room during these discussions. Located just a block and a half from the Resource Center, the soup kitchen serves 200 meals a day, six days a week. Coupled with other Catholic Outreach programs, it’s the largest service provider in Grand Junction. With or without the Resource Center, the soup kitchen will continue to draw the unhoused into downtown Grand Junction. But now, even that might be changing. • Glen Grueling and other hungry people have recently been turned away from the Catholic Outreach’s soup kitchen. Grueling, who has been eating at the soup kitchen for over 20 years, said he has never been asked to provide a name or identification until now. According to Grueling, when he arrived at the soup kitchen recently, Angela Walsh, the soup kitchen’s director, did not see Grueling’s name on her list. “I told her to just write down Firefox, ‘cause that’s what everybody calls me,” said Greuling. He added that Walsh dismissed him, telling him to to find somewhere else to eat before calling for the next person in line. “A lot of hungry bellies were 86ed,” said Grueling, explaining that he was not the only one denied a warm meal that day. “We know the people we serve, and new people are coming here with complaints, cussing out our volunteers,” said Sister Karen Bland with Catholic Outreach. Bland acknowledged that people were being turned away but said it was only one or two people. “We are doing it; we are taking names. Eventually, we will have a card system like Homeward Bound,” said Bland. The card system Bland mentioned is the clarity ID, which is being rolled out by all of the service providers around the city, with Homeward Bound taking the lead. Using clarity IDs was sold as a way to not duplicate services but there is “WHERE ARE THEY GOING TO GO?” ASKED COUNCIL MEMBER SCOTT BEILFUSS, LONG ADVOCATING FOR HOUSING-BASED STRATEGIES TOWARDS HOMELESSNESS. | PHOTO BY BETHANY COCHRAN “ IT WEARS YOU OUT, HAVING TO HIDE FROM THE POLICE. I NEED RESOURCES; I CAN’T WALK ALL OVER TOWN,” concern that it is already turning into a tool of collective punishment, as it can prevent people from accessing not just one service but all of them. It can also serve as a way for the police and providers to separate the deserving poor from the undeserving. “We want people who are cooperative and joyful to get a meal,” said Bland, who added that, since they’ve begun to require names, “things have been great.” Regarding the encampment that popped up across the street from the soup kitchen, Bland had no comment. • “The solution is housing, we can’t get people off the streets without housing,” said Richard Crespin with Mutual Aid Partners, during public comment “[Council] is hoping the homeless population will somehow disappear. It’s not going to happen.” But much of the homeless population has disappeared. disappeared into They have the county jail with lengthy sentences for petty municipal changes. They have disappeared into the deserts north of the city and neighboring towns of Fruita and Clifton — towns without services. In September, the Colorado ACLU sent a letter to the City of Grand Junction imploring the municipal court to cease violating the constitutional rights of the poor and unhoused. Finding that the court “persistently and illegally denies court-appointed counsel to incarcerated people, coerces uncounseled guilty pleas, and often imposes lengthy, uncounseled, illegal jail sentences. Based on the consistency of Judge Eret’s practices, it is likely that all or the vast majority of people convicted by Judge Eret were convicted and sentenced in violation of the Colorado and United States Constitutions.” Grand Junction has a rate of homelessness higher than any city in the State of Colorado, and there are no meaningful solutions on the horizon. Grand Junction is in a state of emergency, whether it’s declared by the City or not. INSIDE THE SPECIAL MEETING HELD BY THE GRAND JUNCTION CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 25. | PHOTO BY BETHANY COCHRAN January 2025 DENVER VOICE 7
COMMUNITY PROFILE ALAMOSA’S SANCTIONED HOMELESS CAMP IS WORKING STORY AND PHOTOS BY GILES CLASEN IT TOOK CHRISTI BUCHANAN and Ricky Plunkett two years to get to Colorado from Texas. The two fled their home in East Texas to get away from a life of addiction, poverty, and trauma. Buchanan and Plunkett hoped to make a fresh start in Colorado Springs. Neither had a car, so they rolled through Texas on bicycles, sleeping in parks, shelters, and on the side of the road. They worked when they could find jobs, and hit up food pantries when they couldn’t. Their journey was slowed multiple times due to weather, breakdowns, and an arrest. Plunkett spent three months in jail in Trinidad, Colorado. He was ticketed for violating the town’s camping ban. When he couldn’t pay, he was arrested. Buchanan stayed in a Trinidad shelter while Plunkett served his time, and she felt something deep inside telling her to change directions and head to the San Luis Valley. “God just was like, ‘You need to go to Alamosa,’” Buchanan said. “And I’m like, ‘I’m not changing my plans at the last minute.’ I just kind of ignored it. But you can’t ignore God. Once I accepted that we needed to go to Alamosa, Ricky was freed.” Plunkett wasn’t sure about the idea, but he decided home was wherever Buchanan was, and that included Alamosa. The first winter in Alamosa nearly cost the two their lives. The San Luis winters are notoriously cold, and Plunkett and Buchanan weren’t prepared. “When we moved out, it was in the middle of winter. It was like negative 26 degrees. That was our first real winter, and it was an awakening for what we were in for,” Plunkett said. For the first 18 months, Plunkett and Buchanan lived at an unsanctioned campsite in the Devil’s Triangle, a strip of private property along the Rio Grande River hidden by railroad tracks. Then, the City of Alamosa made a decision: it planned to sweep the homeless encampments along the river and relocate the community to a new sanctioned campsite — St. Benedict. “We didn’t want to go, but we made the best of it,” Buchanan said. “We went to the very back corner, and we put up tarps and stuff and made like a shelter. We had a woodburning stove in it and all that good stuff there. We still froze our asses off. But we survived, and it was home, kind of.” ST. BENEDICT CAMP The St. Benedict Camp opened in Alamosa with federal POPEYE HAS PARTICIPATED IN THE ST. BENEDICT ENCAMPMENT FOR OVER A YEAR: “I’M NOT HOMELESS, THIS IS OUR HOME.” COVID funds and private foundation support to provide a sanctioned campsite for the unhoused community. The site, which is on the outskirts of town, has running water, 8 DENVER VOICE January 2025
COMMUNITY PROFILE bathrooms, trash services, and limited electricity. Police patrolled the camp throughout the day, and security cameras were put up. La Puente, a nonprofit addressing poverty and homelessness in the San Luis Valley, provided individuals with tents and winter survival gear. The outreach team delivered other supplies as needed. “It was a pretty negative experience when individuals first started moving in, just because it is hard for folks to have police tell them they have to move,” said Christina Bolt, La Puente’s street outreach director. “But I think that overall, most of our folks who are living out there have recognized some of the benefits that have come with having that citysanctioned area to stay.” One of the benefits is that it is easier to receive services at a central location, and less time is spent locating and accessing individual campsites. “We are able to go out there and just sit for a couple of hours with a laptop and get all sorts of stuff done for people. We were able to get people enrolled in new services and meet a lot of needs really quickly,” Bolt said. The camp doesn’t have a manicured lawn. It is a wild piece of land with sage and tumbleweeds creating a thick layer of brush. A dirt road winds through the camp, and during the early months, tourists drove through the camp gawking. With input from the camp, resident changes were made, and St. Benedict took shape as a community with security and stability for those camped at the site. “I’m not homeless. This is our home,” said Popeye, a St. Benedict resident. “I’ve been here for a year. A lot of people here have special needs. People here came from violence and tough backgrounds and are trying to get by. This place isn’t perfect, but it offers some hope.” Popeye became homeless following a divorce. He is on disability due to a back injury he sustained while working in construction. He said he lives with addiction to opiates after being prescribed the painkillers following his injury. Popeye’s addiction ultimately led to a drug conviction. “I tried to find a job, but they won’t hire felons out here. There aren’t many second chances when everyone THE CAMP DOESN’T HAVE A MANICURED LAWN. IT IS A WILD PIECE OF LAND WITH SAGE AND TUMBLEWEEDS. “ THE CITY AND POLICE SEE US AS A PROBLEM. IF THEY’RE GOING TO HELP, THEN HELP BY LISTENING TO US.” knows you and has labeled you,” Popeye said. “This camp, though, this camp is a second chance for a lot of us.” The camp has helped Popeye create a home for himself, but he feels it isn’t enough. He is frustrated that the City of Alamosa has ticketed and towed residents’ vehicles parked in a nearby parking lot. He also feels the rules are enforced too harshly and inconsistently by the police. Popeye said he feels like the rules are there as a weapon against the residents more than to keep the peace. “There are so many stories here, but they don’t listen. How do they expect us to find a job or work when they take our cars?” Popeye said. “The city and police see us as a problem. They say they’re helping, but they’re not helping. If they’re going to help, then help by listening to us.” Popeye said there are still barriers to overcoming homelessness that the city could help remove. THE COMPROMISE The St. Benedict camp was created because federal courts had prevented local government camping bans when there was not alternative shelter. Homelessness had become a bigger issue for Alamosa, and there was public demand in city council meetings to sweep unsanctioned encampments. To sweep the unsanctioned camps, Alamosa had to offer an alternative shelter, and St. Benedict became the solution. But Alamosa Mayor Ty Coleman contends St. Benedict wasn’t simply created to meet the legal requirements to sweeping unsanctioned campsites. “The thing about people who are homeless: we have to always remember that these are human beings,” Coleman said. “They’re deserving of community support and a second chance. And St. Benedict is just one of the ways to support those who are the most vulnerable among us.” The calculus for keeping St. Benedict open changed this TERRY PAQUETTE SAID HE WAS ONE OF THE FIRST TO MOVE INTO ST. BENEDICT AND HAS RECONNECTED WITH FAMILY BY HAVING ONE LOCATION HE CALLS HOME. year when the Supreme Court ruled in June on the Grant Pass v. Johnson case. The ruling stated that camping bans were not a violation of the rights of homeless individuals and that homeless encampment sweeps could be completed January 2025 DENVER VOICE 9
COMMUNITY FEATURE by local governments, even when alternative shelters aren’t available. Grant Pass meant the City of Alamosa could close St. Benedict, which the City seriously considered doing this past August. Ultimately, the City chose to keep St. Benedict because it had become a successful way to deliver services and had proved successful in preventing unsanctioned sites from popping up in residential or business areas. Follow-up discussions lead to new camp rules created in October by the City Council. The most significant change requires individuals to show progress toward overcoming homelessness or face eviction. Individuals can now only live in the camp for six months. After that, they are evaluated on their progress and may be given a six-month extension. There is no camp manager, and the city police will enforce the rules and evaluations. The police can now ban individuals from the camp for violating the rules. It takes a letter from the Alamosa Police Chief to be reinstated to the camp. The Alamosa Citizen reported in August that Alamosa Police Chief George Dingfelder advocated for closing the St. Benedict Camp. Coleman said he believes the new, more restrictive rules seek to ensure the safety of the Alamosa community and the unhoused individuals residing at the camp. “I want [individuals experiencing homelessness] to have a “ THE CAMP’S NOT ENOUGH BECAUSE IT DOESN’T REALLY GIVE PEOPLE THE SECURITY THEY NEED TO FIND A JOB, GET A HOME, AND MOVE ON WITH THEIR LIVES.” place to stay until they get themselves together,” Coleman said. “They are safe and secure at St. Benedict, and we don’t have bad actors over there destroying, being destructive, and causing harm. So, I believe it can be that in the future. But it’s going to take a lot of effort of several different parties to bring about that change we want to see.” But Coleman said he struggles with some of the problems he associates with homelessness, like drug use. Coleman voted in November with the rest of the city council to reject a year-round low-barrier shelter to be run by La Puente. Coleman said providing low-barrier services allows people to continue with what he sees as behavioral issues that makes the community unsafe. “[The vote] was also based upon the huge public outcry that we’ve heard, and the public wants people to be accountable for their actions,” Coleman said. Alamosa City Councilor Jan Vigil believes the St. Benedict camp strikes a balance between those experiencing homelessness and the wider community. “I think our community has really stepped up to address homelessness and is trying to address the needs of folks [experiencing homelessness]. We have to balance their needs and the needs of people in town, businesses, homeowners, and property owners,” Vigil said. “Trying to find that balance has been difficult because homeless folks are our citizens, and they have rights, as well. We need to be CHRISTI BUCHANAN AND RICKY PLUNKETT BIKE THROUGH ALAMOSA TO RUN ERRANDS. 10 DENVER VOICE January 2025
COMMUNITY FEATURE hidden and away from people as much as possible. Jones set up his own camp and is proud of his self-sufficiency. “The police came and asked me to move but I didn’t want to. I have everything I need here and I don’t bother anyone. I wish [the police] would leave me alone,” Jones said. Bolt said more than 25% of St. Benedict residents have moved into homes or apartments. La Puente’s most recent count of unhoused individuals in the Valley recorded the fewest number of unhoused individuals on record, according to Bolt. There are more factors contributing to the success than just the St. Benedict camp, but she believes the camp played an important role. MAKING IT TO THE SPRINGS St. Benedict played a significant role in helping Buchanan and Plunkett get off the street. They both found jobs while living at the camp. Buchanan also connected with behavioral health services at the San Luis Valley Behavioral Health Group and began receiving therapy for trauma from her childhood and first marriage. “I was depressed, and didn’t realize it. I was living with GRIZZLY HAS FOUND COMMUNITY AND SUPPORT THROUGH PARTICIPATION IN THE ST. BENEDICT ENCAMPMENT. there for them too.” Vigil said those experiencing homelessness in Alamosa are primarily from the San Luis Valley. A few of the people, like Plunkett and Buchanan, are traveling to Alamosa to seek services. Coleman sees the St. Benedict camp as a way for the Alamosa community to take care of its people. “What I really like about the Valley is we really protect our own and support our own. There has been some opposition, but really I have seen this community step up and help these folks, and I know we can continue to try and change lives,” Vigil said. Vigil said most people understand that if the camp is closed or the city provides less support to those experiencing homelessness, then the unsanctioned camping will pop up near the river and in other public places. Vigil wants to see the City of Alamosa do more to help people recover from homelessness. “Providing people a place to stay for one year is good. But I worry that it’s not good enough, because the Valley doesn’t have a lot of programs for people to move to from the camp,” Vigil said. “The camp’s not enough because it doesn’t really give people the security they need to find a job, get a home, and move on with their lives.” A COMMUNITY, BOTH GOOD AND BAD For Christina Bolt with LaPuenta, the camp’s most important service is creating a community for individuals going through a shared experience. “I don’t think that growth ever happens in isolation. In my life, most of my growth has happened when I’ve had a good community around me,” Bolt said. “I think that when people have other folks to rely on and to go to, it sparks a desire to grow and change.” Bolt said she has seen people become more motivated to enroll in services, work with a case manager, or try to find a job. The communal nature of the camp has also led to fewer deaths among the unhoused. “We have seen very few overdose deaths at the camp. Our folks are in community and able to help with Narcan quickly and effectively,” Bolt said. “We have not had any deaths POPEYE WEARS A CROSS AROUND HIS NECK AT ALL TIMES. HE SAID HE DOESN’T CONSIDER ST. BENEDICT AN ENCAMPMENT, HE SEES IT AS A HOME. because of exposure out there, either, because if you are not prepared for the winter, people out there will give you tips on how to survive the cold.” But the community in the camp doesn’t work for everyone. Bolt said it can be hard to live in close proximity under stressful circumstances. The La Puente outreach team continues to serve a small number of individuals who are illegally camped around Alamosa. Lilelk Dyapp Jones said he has refused to move to the camp because he doesn’t feel safe living near other people. “Being around other people can be toxic for me, “Jones said. According to Jones, he has had bad experiences with the police and other people living on the street, so he tries to stay ADHD and PTSD and trying to make it on my own without realizing I was sick,” Buchanan said. “I was constantly having anxiety attacks, and I didn’t even know it. I thought it was normal. It was no wonder my life was a mess.” Buchanan and Plunkett left the camp to live in an RV. They had some negative interactions with the police because of their wood-fired stove, and they felt leaving the camp was their only option. But the two continued to participate in case management, behavioral health, and other services they signed up for while living at St. Benedict. In time, they received a housing voucher and an apartment. Buchanan’s time at the camp even created the opportunity for her to attend college. She is studying to be a vet technician. They moved to Colorado Springs in November so she could finish her clinical work and graduate. “I’m glad I’m in school and have a future,” Buchanan said. “God must have wanted me to come to Alamosa, to [St. Benedict] so I could get help and get therapy and get housing and go to school and end up in Colorado Springs after all.” January 2025 DENVER VOICE 11
IN YOUR OWN WORDS HAPPY NEW YEAR, SELF! BY RAELENE JOHNSON HAPPY NEW YEAR, SELF. We made it to 2025! As I write this, it is still 2024, and I am preparing to have surgery on my left arm on my birthday, December 20, which I hope is the last surgery of the year because two surgeries in one year is a lot. This past year was a hard one. Thank you, Self, for being strong through 2024. We beat cancer and overcame a car wreck. I can’t do anything but trust that 2025 will be a great year. I thank God for the strength He gave me to come out stronger than I could ever imagine. You never know how strong you are until cancer or things like that enter your life. You can fight or give up. Giving up wasn’t in me, so I fought and WON my battle. The biggest thing necessary to win any hard battle is to stay positive. Do not let negativity enter your mind. When you think negatively, you will call out to the universe; it will come to you. So, always think good, and good will come back to you. Believe things will only get worse for you and guess what? Things will always go wrong or get worse for you. The universe will always give you what you speak or think into existence. So be careful what you think. Good or Bad will matter depending on what you really want. We are in a new year, so the past is behind us. Let’s not bring past hurt. Any anger about what happened in 2024 should stay there. This is the New Year we are in NOW. I want to look for the best in everything I surround myself with — from people and places I hang around to how I treat people or allow people to treat me. Only Self is in control of our happiness To live life, I can’t wait to see what is coming for me this year. I do know whatever happens has to be better than last year was for me. When you beat cancer anything is possible and you have nothing to lose you beat the hardest thing in life. My prayer is for everyone to be safe, housed, happy and that all dreams come true. Stay at peace always. Thanks for supporting us vendors and caring about Denver VOICE. Please continue to support the VOICE. May God bless you all this “New Year!” RAELENE JOHNSON. | PHOTO BY KAREN BEEMAN WINTER DONATIONS MADE EASY During the winter, Denver VOICE vendors experience increased heating and housing costs. Meanwhile, their income decreases because cold temperatures means less foot traffic and fewer paper sales. If you would like to help out your vendor by donating a few extra dollars, scan the QR code below to make a payment through Venmo. Please be sure to write your vendor’s name in the comments. Thank you! WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO THIS. DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE @DenverVOICE CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS We are looking for volunteers to help us at community events, or to assist with paper distribution and basic offi ce administration at our offi ce (989 Santa Fe. Dr.). If you are interested and would like to know more, contact us at program@ denvervoice.org. 12 DENVER VOICE January 2025
EVENTS DOWNTOWN DENVER RINK The Downtown Denver Partnership proudly invites you and your family to join us at the Downtown Denver Rink presented by Southwest Airlines. WHEN: Nov. 21, 2024 – Feb. 2, 2025 COST: Skate Rentals for adults are $12 and $9 for Kids, 12 & under. Bring your own pair and skate for free. WHERE: 16th & Arapahoe St., Denver INFO: winterindenver.com/rink STOCK SHOW KICKOFF PARADE The National Western Stock Show transforms Denver into the ultimate Western destination, starting with the annual Kick-off Parade. WHEN: Thurs., Jan 9 Noon COST: Free WHERE: Start – Union Station at 17th St., End – 17th & Glenarm Pl. INFO: nationalwestern.com/special-events/parade THE DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. MARADE (MARCH + PARADE) The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Marade is the only one of its kind in the nation. WHEN: Jan. 20, 9:30 a.m. – Opening Ceremony Dr. MLK Jr. Statue, 10:45 a.m. – Marade Step-off COST: Free WHERE: City Park, 3201 17th St. Denver. INFO: drmartinlkingjrchc.org/index.php/marade-information 43RD ANNUAL COLORADO INDIAN MARKET & SOUTHWEST ART FEST This vibrant celebration of Native American, Southwestern, and Western arts showcases 150 top-tier juried performers, food booths, and engaging special attractions. WHEN: Jan. 25, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Jan 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. COST: Single-Day Admission for adults - $16, Seniors and Military $15, Kids 12 & under - Free WHERE: The Colorado Convention Center, 700 14th St, Denver INFO: dashevents.com/productions/colorado-indian-market SUNDAYS ON SANTA FE Check out the heart of Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe for a free gallery crawl on the last Sunday of each month. WHEN: Jan. 26, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. COST: Free WHERE: The Art District on Santa Fe (between 6th and 10th Ave. on Santa Fe. Dr.) INFO: denver.org/event/sundays-on-santa-fe/102794 8 5 3 9 4 7 3 8 6 2 3 9 6 8 5 5 7 2 3 7 1 9 2 4 artists and craftsmen alongside tribal dances, award-winning ACROSS 1. Find and fi x problems, as in code 6. Opposin’ 10. Hiker’s snack 14. Dispatch boat 15. Compos mentis 16. Elliptical 17. Basic belief 18. Mistress, in slang 20. Lack of appreciation 22. Color TV pioneer 23. Neckline shape 24. What “it” plays 25. Damascus’ land: Abbr. 26. Part of an email address 27. Teachers’ degs. 29. Make a sweater 31. God of love 32. GPS heading 34. Hosp. diagnostic 37. Carol Burnett had one, as did Ed Sullivan 39. Mexican state or its capital 40. Rank above maj. 41. Breathing organ 42. “Gee whillikers!” 44. AOL and MSN 48. Appropriate 49. Holder and Reno, for short 51. Insurance co. bailed out in 2008 53. Sundial number 54. Kind of shot 55. Degrades, as a person 58. Some Oregon State graduates (and State of Oregon employees) 60. On the lookout (for) 61. Like a 911 call: Abbr. 62. In addition 63. Spaghetti topping 64. Cheek 65. Extended family 66. Abnormally active DOWN 1. Latin grammatical case 2. Made square 3. Watched all in one sitting 4. Tech support caller 5. Implied 6. Appoint 7. Trot or canter 8. Music or hospitality, e.g. 9. Destitute 10. “Th ere but for the grace of God ___” 11. Lose one’s balance? 12. Rocky, for one 13. Skirt folds 19. Th e “p” in m.p.g. 21. Absorb 28. Tangle 30. “___ Sexy,” Right Said Fred hit of the 90s 31. Bacteria discovered by Th eodor Escherich 33. Gun grp., or the New Deal org. that set the fi rst federal minimum wage 35. Resort island off Naples 36. HBO alternative 37. Carrion eaters 38. Batter no-no 39. Graduation certifi cate 41. Social blunders 43. Famous victim of a bad haircut 45. Evaluate, as an opponent 46. Puncture 47. One who tries not to break a habit? 49. Infomercials, e.g. 50. Do a passable job 52. Grind, as teeth 56. “Major” animal 57. “Now ___ me down to sleep...” 59. Triage sites, briefl y 41 48 54 58 61 64 59 62 65 49 55 50 56 60 63 66 PUZZLES 1 14 17 20 23 27 28 32 37 39 42 43 51 52 57 33 38 40 44 45 53 46 47 24 29 30 34 35 36 21 25 31 2 3 4 5 6 15 18 19 22 26 7 8 COURTESY OF STREETROOTS 9 10 16 11 12 13 January 2025 DENVER VOICE 13 PUZZLE COURTESY OF STREET ROOTS, DENVER VOICE’S SISTER PAPER IN PORTLAND, OR PUZZLE COURTESY OF STREET ROOTS, DENVER VOICE’S SISTER PAPER IN PORTLAND, OR
DONOR LIST WE LOVE OUR DONORS! WHEN YOU SUPPORT THE DENVER VOICE, YOU ARE HELPING SUPPORT HUNDREDS OF HOMELESS AND IMPOVERISHED INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE WORKING TO REALIZE SELF-SUFFICIENCY THROUGH EARNING A DIGNIFIED INCOME. YOUR GIFT MAKES A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE FOR THESE INDIVIDUALS. HERE, WE LIST THOSE WHO HAVE GIVEN $500 AND MORE IN THE LAST YEAR. DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE $10,000+ Meek-Cuneo Family Fund Anonymous Individual Donor Matt and Nikki Seashore Acorn Hill Foundation Inc. Pivotal Energy Partners USA, Inc. Cisco Francis Trainer and Trainer Family J. Albrecht Designs Master Goldsmith Mary Walker & Walker Family Foundation $5,000 - $9,999 Anschutz Family Foundation Laurie Duncan and Duncan-Mcwethy Foundation Colorado Housing and Finance Authority Alexander Seavall Frederic K Conover Trust The Christian Foundation Bank of America Charitable Foundation Sustainable Housing and Development Foundation Joshua Kauer $1,000-$4,999 Christopher Boulanger Katherine Standiford Jill Haug Whole Foods Foundation Michael Dino Alex Salva Signs By Tomorrow Rose Community Foundation Russell Peterson Kneedler Fauchere Donald Weaver Chris and Susan Pappas Julia and David Watson Gaspar Terrana SEI Giving Fund Sidney B and Caleb F Gates Fund Megan Arellano Warren and Betty Kuehner Jeremy Anderson and Thomas Stalker Keyrenter Property Management Denver Mathew Rezek The Credit Union of Colorado Foundation Jana and Jim Cuneo Kroger Paul Manoogian Lori Holland Maggie Holben Michael J. Fehn and Jan Monnier Jim Ashe Courage and Community Foundation George Lichter Family Foundation Lisa Wagner Elsbeth Williams KO Law Firm Graham Davis Peter Iannuzzi $500-$999 Margaret Ramp Megan Sullivan John Gibson Sheryl Parker Ruth Henderson James and Cyndi Lesslie Fire on the Mountain Craig Solomon Seth Beltzley Strawberry Mountain Jennifer Thornton-Kolbe Laura Saunders Jerry Conover Robert E and Anne T Sneed Family Foundation Barbara and Robert Ells Carol and Louis Irwin Edwina Salazar James Stegman Jennifer Stedron Stephen Saul WalMart Nikki Lawson CEDS Finance Impact Assets Courage and Community Foundation Louis Irwin Mary Livernois Mr B’s Liquor Wines For Humanity KL&A Engineers and Builders Paula Cushing 14 DENVER VOICE January 2025 SPONSORSHIP LEVELS THE DENVER VOICE’S ANNUAL SPONSORSHIP SUPPORT LEVELS PROVIDE BUSINESSES LIKE YOURS THE OPPORTUNITY TO INVEST IN WORK EMPOWERMENT, HOMELESS PREVENTION, THE CHALLENGING OF COMMUNITY PERCEPTIONS, AND TO BE A PART OF PROVIDING OUR COMMUNITY WITH QUALITY AWARD-WINNING JOURNALISM THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE THROUGH OUR WRITERS AND VENDORS – AN INVALUABLE PART OF DENVER’S COMMUNITY. YOUR INVOLVEMENT WILL HELP HIGHLIGHT THE IMPORTANCE OF TAKING POSITIVE ACTION TO COMBAT HOMELESSNESS AND IMPOVERISHMENT. AS A SPONSOR, YOU HAVE A WAY TO REACH OUT TO THE COMMUNITY AND GIVE SOMETHING BACK AT THE SAME TIME. ANNUAL SPONSORSHIPS BENEFITS INCLUDE YOUR LOGO LISTED ON OUR WEBSITE HOMEPAGE, MONTHLY AD SPACE IN OUR PAPER, AND SPECIAL EVENT PERKS FOR YOU AND YOUR EMPLOYEES ALL YEAR LONG. IT’S A GOOD DEAL FOR A GOOD CAUSE, AND YOUR GIFT IS 100% TAX-DEDUCTIBLE! ABOVE THE FOLD: $5,000 • One complimentary full page ad in the newspaper ($1,000 value) • Table of 10 and Sponsor recognition at annual Rise and Thrive Breakfast (200 attendees) • Sponsorship recognition at our annual Pints Fighting Poverty event (200 attendees) • Business logo highlighted on website homepage, and in the Above the Fold Sponsorship list • Logo highlighted in our annual report, along with logo in quarterly support feature of the paper GALLEY: $2,500 • One complimentary half page ad in the newspaper ($600 value) • Table of 10 and Sponsor recognition at annual Rise and Thrive Breakfast (200 attendees) • Sponsorship recognition at our annual Pints Fighting Poverty event (200 attendees) • Business logo highlighted on website homepage, and in the Galley Sponsorship list • Logo highlighted in our annual report, along with logo in quarterly support feature of the paper HONOR BOX: $1,000 • Table of 10 and Sponsor recognition at annual Rise and Thrive Breakfast (200 attendees) • Sponsorship recognition at our annual Pints Fighting Poverty event (200 attendees) • Business logo highlighted on website homepage, and in the Honor Box Sponsorship list • Logo highlighted in our annual report, along with logo in quarterly support feature of the paper FLY SHEET: $500 • Two complimentary tickets to our annual Pints Fighting Poverty event ($50 value) • Business logo highlighted on website homepage, and in the Fly Sheet Sponsorship list • Logo highlighted in our annual report, along with logo in quarterly support feature of the paper
RESOURCE LIST MEDICAL / MENTAL HEALTH / DENTAL SERVICES ACS COMMUNITY LIFT: 5045 W. 1st Ave., Denver; https://rentassistance. org DENVER HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER: 777 Bannock St.; https://www. denverhealth.org DETOX LOCAL: Features information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the AAPI (American Asian and Pacific Islander) community; http://www.detoxlocal.com DRUG REHAB USA: Addiction hotline - 888-479-0446; Organizations that take Medicaid: http://www.drugrehabus.org/rehabs/treatment/ medicaid/united-states/colorado/denver HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 112 E. 8th Ave.; 303-572-7800; HIV/ Hep C/ Gonorrhea/ Chlamydia testing available. Services are restricted to active IV Drug Users. Offers clean syringes to active users, as well as safety training on proper disposal of dirty syringes; M-F – 9am-12pm: http://www.harmreductionactioncenter.org INNER CITY HEALTH CENTER: 3800 York St.; Emergency walk-ins - 303296-1767; Dental – 303-296-4873; M-F - 8am-2pm LIVER HEALTH CONNECTION: 1325 S. Colorado Blvd.; Suite B302; Resources and support for those affected by Hep C. Free Hep C testing offered; 800-522-4372, 800-359-9272; info@hepcconnection.org; https://www.viventhealth.org NATIONAL AIDS HOTLINE: 800-342-AIDS/800-344-7432 NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE: Text or call 988; https:// www.988lifeline.org NATIONAL RUNAWAY SAFELINE: 800-RUNAWAY/800-786-2929; https:// www.1800runaway.org RAPE ABUSE AND INCEST NATIONAL NETWORK: 800-656-HOPE; https:// www.rainn.org SALUD CLINIC: 6255 Quebec Pkwy, Commerce City; 303-697-2583, 970-484-0999; https://www.saludclinic.org/commerce-city STOUT STREET CLINIC: 2130 Stout St.; 303-293-2220; Clinic hours for new and established patients - M, T, Th, F - 7am-4pm, W - 9am-6pm; https://www.coloradocoalition.org/healthcare SUBSTANCE ABUSE REHAB GUIDE: HELPLINE – 888-493-4670; https:// www.detoxrehabs.net/states/colorado/ U.S. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE: 800-799-7233 (English and Spanish); 800-243-7889 (TDD); https://www.thehotline.org EMERGENCY SHELTER INDIVIDUALS IN NEED OF SHELTER ARE ENCOURAGED TO GO TO “FRONT DOOR” SHELTER ACCESS POINTS: • For individual men – Denver Rescue Mission Lawrence Street Community Center, 2222 Lawrence St. • For individual women – Samaritan House, 2301 Lawrence St. • For youth ages 15-20 – Urban Peak, 1630 S. Acoma St. • Families in need of shelter should call the Connection Center at 303-295-3366. ADDITIONALLY, DENVER PARKS AND RECREATION WILL OPEN ALL CURRENTLY OPERATING RECREATION CENTERS AS DAYTIME WARMING CENTERS DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS ON FRIDAY, NOV. 8 AND SATURDAY, NOV. 9, FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED A PLACE TO WARM UP. Denver Public Library locations are also available during regular business hours. Double-check library hours: denverlibrary.org/ locations. For more information about shelter access, visit denvergov.org/ findshelter or text INDOORS to 67283 for updates. DROP-IN DAYTIME CENTERS HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; Mon.-Fri. 7am-1pm. Private showers & bathrooms, laundry, lunch, etc; https://www.thoh. org THE GATHERING PLACE: 1535 High St.; 303-321-4198; Mon., Wed.-Fri. 8:30am-5pm, Tues. 8:30am-1:30pm; Daytime drop-in center for women, their children, and transgender individuals; Meals, computer lab, phones, food bank, clothing, art programs, GED tutoring, referrals to other services, etc; https://www.tgpdenver.org HARM REDUCTION ACTION CENTER: 231 East Colfax; Mon.-Fri. 9am12pm; 303-572-7800; Provides clean syringes, syringe disposal, harm-reduction counseling, safe materials, Hep C/HIV education, and health education classes; https://www. harmreductionactioncenter.org FOR HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS IN DENVER DENVERVOICE.ORG/RESOURCE-LIST LAWRENCE STREET COMMUNITY CENTER: 2222 Lawrence St.; 303-2940157; day facility, laundry, showers, restrooms, access to services https://www.homelessassistance.us/li/lawrence-street-communitycenter OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm. Drop-in center; bathrooms, coffee/tea, snacks, resources, WIFI https://www.odmdenver.org T. FRANCIS CENTER: 303-297-1576; 2323 Curtis St. 6am-6pm daily. Storage for one bag (when space is available). Satellite Clinic hoursMon., Tues., Thurs, Fri. 7:30am-3:30pm; Wed. 12:30-4:30pm https:// www.sfcdenver.org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES: 846 E. 18th Ave. For those 60+. TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, and more. https://www. seniorsupportservices.org SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES): 2017 Larimer St. Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30 years old. Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. Tues.Fri. 12-4pm & Sat. 11-2pm. https://www.soxplace.com THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES): 2100 Stout St. 303-2910442. Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am. YOUTH AGED 15-20 IN NEED OF IMMEDIATE OVERNIGHT SHELTER SERVICES: 303-974-2928 https://www.urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-andservices/drop-in-center URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES): Youth 14-24 in Denver and Colorado Springs. Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skills and training, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing. 730 21st St. 303-974-2900 https://www. urbanpeak.org FREE MEALS CAPITOL HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: 1100 Fillmore St., Sat. lunch at 11:30am; https://www.capitolheightspresbyterian.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: https://www.mealsforpoor.org CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION: 1530 Logan St.; sandwiches & coffee Mon.-Fri. 8:30am; https://www.denvercathedral. org CHRIST’S BODY MINISTRIES: 850 Lincoln; Mon. closed, Tues.-Thurs. 10am-3pm, Fri. 8am-11pm; groceries & hot meal on Sat. at 2pm (at 16th & York); Sun. church service at 6pm, dinner at 7pm; https:// www.christsbody.org CHRIST IN THE CITY: Home-cooked meal, weekly; Lunch in the Park is on Wednesdays from 12-1 at Benedict Fountain Park (Tremont and 22nd); https://www.christinthecity.org CITYSQUARE DENVER: 2575 S. Broadway; 303-783-3777; Food pantry Tues. 10am-6pm; https://www.citysquare.org CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY SERVICES: 1820 Broadway (in front of Trinity United Methodist Church); Hot meals served M, T, Th., F - 11:4512:15; https://www.mealsforpoor.org DENVER RESCUE MISSION: 1130 Park Avenue West; 303-294-0157; 3 meals 7 days/week, 5:30am, 12pm, 6pm; https://www. denverrescuemission.org HAVEN OF HOPE: 1101 W. 7th Ave.; 303-607-0855; M-F. 7am-1pm. Not open weekends; Breakfast is at 8am, lunch is served at 11am; https:// www.havenofhope.org HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE: 1400 Cherry St., free vegetarian feast on Sun., 6:45-7:30pm; https://www.krishnadenver.com HIS LOVE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH: 910 Kalamath St.; Community dinner on Thurs., 6-6:45pm, Men’s breakfast 1st Sat. of the month, 8-10am, Women’s breakfast 2nd Sat., 9-11am; https://www.hislovefellowship. org HOLY GHOST CATHOLIC CHURCH: 1900 California St.; Sandwiches, M-Sat., 10-10:30am; https://www.holyghostchurch.org OPEN DOOR MINISTRIES: 1567 Marion St.; 303-830-2201; Sat. morning breakfast: 8am, Sun. dinner (required church attendance at 4:30pm); meal served at 6pm; https://www.odmdenver.org/home ST. ELIZABETH’S: Speer Blvd. & Arapahoe St. on Auraria Campus, 7 days/week, 11:00am; Food, coffee; https://www.stelizabethdenver. org ST. FRANCIS CENTER: 2323 Curtis St., Wed. & Fri. 3-4:30pm (except third Wed. of each month); https://www.sfcdenver.org SAME CAFÉ: 2023 E. Colfax Ave; 720-530-6853;Restaurant serving mostly organic food—not free, but pay what you can or work off your meal in the kitchen; Open Mon.-Sat., 11am to 2pm, Closed Sun. & holidays; https://www.soallmayeat.org VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA: 2877 Lawrence St., breakfast (8am), lunch (11:30am), dinner (5pm) Mon.-Thurs., 12pm on Fri., 1pm on Sun. January 2025 DENVER VOICE 15 Food & clothing bank 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Thurs.; https://www. voacolorado.org/gethelp-denvermetro-foodnutrition-themission LGBTQ+ SUPPORT THE TREVOR PROJECT: 866-488-7386: https://www.thetrevorproject.org LGBT NATIONAL YOUTH TALKLINE: 800-246-7743: https://www. lgbthotline.org/youth-talkline PRIDE INSTITUTE: 800-547-7433 TRUE COLORS UNITED: 212-461-4401, https://www.truecolorsunited. org VETERANS & SENIORS DENVER INNER CITY PARISH: 1212 Mariposa St.; 303-322-5733; VOA Dining Center for Seniors, aged 60 and older, W-Sat. 9am-12pm; Food Bank, W-F; Tickets at 9am, food bank open 10am-12pm; dicp. org SENIOR SUPPORT SERVICES: 846 E. 18th Ave.; For those aged 60 or older; TV room, bus tokens, mental/physical health outreach, 3 meals, M-F -7am-7pm; Sun. 11am-4pm; https://www. seniorsupportservices.org VA MEDICAL CENTER: 1700 N Wheeling St.; Aurora 303-399-8020: https://www.va.gov/findlocations/facility/vha_554A5 VETERANS GUIDE: https://www.veteransguide.org; Veterans Disability Calculator https://www.veteransguide.org/va-disability-calculator YOUTH SERVICES SOX PLACE (YOUTH SERVICES): 2017 Larimer St.; 303-296-3412Daytime drop-in shelter for youth 12-30; Meals, socks, clothing bank, personal hygiene supplies, internet access, intentional mentoring and guidance, crisis intervention, referrals to other services. T-F - 12-4pm & Sat. 11am-2pm. Instagram: @Soxplace THE SPOT AT URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES): 2100 Stout St. 303-2910442; Youth aged 15-20 in need of immediate overnight shelter services, 303-974-2928; Drop-in hours Mon.-Fri. 8-11am https:// www.urbanpeak.org/denver/programs-and-services/drop-in-center SUNSHINE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH (YOUTH SERVICES): 833-931-2484; Services for youth facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions; https://www. sunshinebehavioralhealth.com URBAN PEAK (YOUTH SERVICES): 730 21st St., Denver; 303-974-2900; Ages14-24; Serving Denver & Colo Springs; Overnight shelter, food, clothing, showers, case workers, job skill/straining, ID and birth certificate assistance, GED assistance, counseling and housing; https://www. urbanpeak.org 8 5 4 9 7 2 3 1 6 7 6 3 1 8 5 9 4 2 9 1 2 3 4 6 8 5 7 4 9 5 7 1 3 2 6 8 6 7 8 5 2 9 4 3 1 2 3 1 4 6 8 5 7 9 1 8 6 2 5 4 7 9 3 3 4 7 8 9 1 6 2 5 5 2 9 6 3 7 1 8 4 D E B U G A G I N G O R P A V I S O S A N E O V A L T E N E T S I D E P I E C E I N G R A T I T U D E R C A V E E E D D S T A G S Y R D O T E R O S K N I T G I L L A P T N N E M R I S C A N V A R I E T Y S H O W D U R A N G O C O L G O S H A G S A I G I I S P S I I F L U D E H U M A N I Z E S F O R E S T E R S A L E R T E M E R A L S O S A U C E S A S S C L A N H Y P E R
WHAT DO WE DO TO HELP? Since 2007, the VOICE has provided jobs for more than 4,600 people experiencing housing or financial instability. For every dollar we take in, we put $3.00 directly back into the pockets of those who need it most. WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO MORE. SCAN THIS CODE TO SET UP YOUR DONATION TODAY! 16 DENVER VOICE January 2025 DENVERVOICE.ORG/DONATE
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