Denver's Homeless Services Face Crisis as City Delays $5M in Salvation Army Payments
Denver's largest homeless services provider is facing severe financial strain as city officials delay millions in contract payments, potentially impacting vital shelter services for 1,800 Coloradans daily, including 300 children. The mounting tension between Denver City Council and The Salvation Army threatens to disrupt critical homeless services across the metro area.
The organization has been forced to tap into reserves while waiting for approximately $5 million in delayed payments for services already provided to Denver residents. This financial uncertainty comes as Colorado faces increasing challenges with housing affordability and homelessness.
Impact on Denver Metro Communities
The Salvation Army currently operates several key facilities serving Denver's homeless population, including:
- Crossroads shelter for men
- Lambuth, Tamarac, Stone Creek and Aspen hotel shelters
- Family housing programs serving hundreds of children
"We shelter dozens of families, including about 300 children every single night. We're helping children to get vaccinated and to attend school," said Jennifer Forker, Salvation Army spokesperson. "We're helping their parents find housing and jobs. This is critical work we're doing."
Growing Concerns Over Shelter Conditions
City officials and advocacy groups have raised concerns about conditions at several facilities. According to the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment, twenty-five people have died at "All In" shelters operated by The Salvation Army, with causes ranging from overdoses to security incidents.
Mayor Maintains Support Despite Challenges
"We are a better city today for the efforts of The Salvation Army," stated Denver Mayor Mike Johnston. "The Salvation Army performs a difficult job at an extremely high level, and I know they are as committed to accountability and improvement as they are to our shared mission."
Future Uncertainty for Colorado's Homeless Services
The city is now considering competing proposals to run Denver's shelters in 2026, potentially ending a relationship that dates back to 1887. This transition could significantly impact how Colorado's capital city addresses homelessness in the coming years.
For Colorado families concerned about homelessness in their communities, the ongoing controversy raises questions about the future of homeless services in the Denver metro area and how similar programs might be affected in other Front Range cities.
This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.
