How the Homeless Navigation Program Works

The Homeless and Housing Navigators aid individuals experiencing homelessness in a variety of ways, including ordering vital documents, searching for and applying for jobs, referrals to outside resources for specialized care, applying for housing, and more. They do not utilize a one-size-fits-all approach when working with unhoused clients; rather, the unique needs and goals of each individual is taken into consideration and customized action plans are created to develop a pathway to sustainable, long-term housing.

Each week, the navigators spend time out in the community providing resources and assisting individuals who are experiencing housing crises. One example of this is weekly street outreach, in which the navigators travel to popular spots in which individuals congregate and provide survival items such as food, water, and protective clothing from the heat and cold. This also enables the navigators to build strong relationships and work towards the long-term goals of the individuals they encounter. Beyond street outreach, the navigators advocate for their clients in court, join them at important appointments, meet them in the community to apply for benefits and housing opportunities, and much more.

The Program has provided assistance to over 260 individuals since it was launched in 2020, with 127 individuals (and counting!) placed into housing. Additionally, the Program has received over $100,000 in grant dollars, and donations (financial and in-kind) to support the success of this program.

If you would like to support the work of the Homeless Navigation Program, you can donate directly through the Wheat Ridge Community Foundation: Donate (wheatridgefoundation.org)