According to Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, methamphetamine and fentanyl are substances that particularly impact individuals facing homelessness.
According to Johnston, a professor from the University of California at San Francisco explained that if a drug were specifically designed for homelessness, it would provide protection against the cold, help individuals stay awake at night to endure the winter, ensure safety, and suppress hunger due to limited access to food. He stated that methamphetamine and fentanyl, in essence, mimic these effects, aiding in survival for those living without shelter.
At a news conference held to announce the opening of the La Paz tiny home community in Overland Park, a journalist asked about the approach to handling drug use on site. In response, it was stated that in most of their communities, the policy is to prohibit distribution and public use of drugs on site.
Mayor: Drugs not a ‘challenge’ at tiny homes
Johnston mentioned that they haven’t encountered such challenges in other locations when it comes to staff and security. He believes that the availability of amenities like heating, air conditioning, food, bathrooms, kitchens, and showers in these splendid sites provides individuals with a unique opportunity to reconnect with activities that contribute to their success.
The Colfax and Umatilla encampment residents will be relocated to 60 cozy homes, with the possibility of expanding the site to accommodate 120 homes in the future. Colorado Village Collaborative, an experienced manager of multiple tiny home sites in Denver, will oversee the management of this site, as they have done for many years.
Substance abuse, mental health treatment
The tiny home community is designed to provide temporary housing for its residents. They will receive case management services and have the option to seek substance abuse or mental health treatment if needed. It is important to note that undergoing treatment is not mandatory in order to be eligible for housing in the community.
The city has taken action to address the issue of homelessness by acquiring or renting six hotels throughout the city. With the introduction of the La Paz tiny home community, there are now a total of eight sites dedicated to providing housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. In the coming days, Denver will continue to open additional tiny home and pallet shelter communities to further support those in need.
Johnston has named his initiative to provide shelter for an additional 1,000 homeless individuals in the coming year “All in Mile High.” According to him, the name reflects the objective of bringing everyone off the streets and involving the entire community in the effort.
