Denver City, Colorado offers a variety of housing options, specifically designed for individuals dealing with homelessness, mental illnesses, disabilities, or those trying to recover from substance abuse. These housing options, known as supportive housing, combine safe and affordable housing with voluntary support services tailored to the needs of each individual or family.
Several state and federal subsidies assist renters in Denver within the supportive housing system. The principal program is the Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8. This federal subsidy is administered by the Denver Housing Authority (DHA) and involves the government subsidizing part of the rent and utilities for residents who earn less than the area's average income. The amount of the subsidy depends on the person or family's income, assets, and expenses, along with the region's median income and rent levels. The Colorado State Housing Vouchers Program is another subsidy available to residents. This program assists individuals dealing with mental illnesses, homelessness, or those who were previously in foster care. The Colorado Department of Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health administers this program.
Denver city also offers non-private supportive housing assistance to its residents. One such program is the Denver Supportive Housing Social Impact Bond Program which delivers housing and supportive case management services to individuals who struggle with homelessness and have had frequent contact with the criminal justice system. The Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, an independent organization, offers the Housing First program. This evidence-based approach revolves around providing people struggling with homelessness with permanent housing directly, alongside voluntary support services. Similarly, Brothers Redevelopment, Inc. is a local non-profit organization that provides affordable, safe, and accessible housing options for low-income senior citizens and individuals with disabilities.
The DHA administers the Public Housing Program in Denver. This program incorporates several affordable, low-income apartments and houses, scattered throughout Denver County. Primarily designed for families, the elderly, and persons living with disabilities, the rent for these properties is based on the resident's income.
The PBV program funds specific units within housing developments to be designated as affordable housing for residents who meet income eligibility requirements. Unlike Section 8 vouchers, which move with the tenant, PBVs stay with the unit. The rent for these units is lower than market rates and is directly subsidized by the government. Developers maintain PBV units, ensuring they comply with holistic criteria like quality, safety, and affordability.
Denver city also recognizes the requirement for Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) to combat homelessness. PSH is a long-term solution that combines affordable rental housing with supportive services for individuals and families dealing with chronic homelessness resulting from mental illnesses or substance abuse. PSH aids occupants in achieving stability and leading more productive lives, thereby enhancing their well-being.
Overall, Denver City features a wide spectrum of supportive housing options, underpinned by federal, state, and non-private assistance programs, to provide stable and affordable accommodation for all its residents. While these programs significantly enhance living conditions for individuals and families, it's important to remember that the ultimate goal is to alleviate homelessness and help citizens maintain their newfound stability.
