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Homelessness is a complex problem that goes beyond just not having a place to live. It is most often intrinsically tied to factors such as financial barriers, a shortage of affordable housing, mental health issues, and family conflicts. People who are homeless often have faced severe trauma, and experiencing homelessness itself is traumatizing. The combination of all of these circumstances can make it extremely difficult for individuals to navigate into secure and permanent housing. Helping homeless individuals means understanding these challenges and finding solutions that address both their immediate needs and the underlying systemic issues that may be causing and perpetuating their homelessness.
In 2020, the City of Wheat Ridge launched the Homeless Navigation Program to address the issue of rising rates of homelessness in the area. The Program joined the larger Jefferson County Homeless Navigation Collaborative, an initiative that brings together Homeless Navigators from municipalities in Jefferson County. This county-wide collaborative effort supports a cohesive and effective approach to coordinating care for those experiencing homelessness.
Subscribe to this page to stay updated on the Homeless Navigation Program!
Homelessness is a complex problem that goes beyond just not having a place to live. It is most often intrinsically tied to factors such as financial barriers, a shortage of affordable housing, mental health issues, and family conflicts. People who are homeless often have faced severe trauma, and experiencing homelessness itself is traumatizing. The combination of all of these circumstances can make it extremely difficult for individuals to navigate into secure and permanent housing. Helping homeless individuals means understanding these challenges and finding solutions that address both their immediate needs and the underlying systemic issues that may be causing and perpetuating their homelessness.
In 2020, the City of Wheat Ridge launched the Homeless Navigation Program to address the issue of rising rates of homelessness in the area. The Program joined the larger Jefferson County Homeless Navigation Collaborative, an initiative that brings together Homeless Navigators from municipalities in Jefferson County. This county-wide collaborative effort supports a cohesive and effective approach to coordinating care for those experiencing homelessness.
Subscribe to this page to stay updated on the Homeless Navigation Program!
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Summer Outreach Bag Stuffing
As part of the 2025 Summer Donation Drive, the Wheat Ridge Homeless Navigation Program created approximately 200 summer care bags for individuals experiencing homelessness in our community.
Community members donated sturdy backpack-sized bags and reusable water bottles.
The Navigation Program purchased all remaining supplies to complete each kit, which includes:
- One full bottle of water
- Sunscreen
- Chapstick with SPF
- Electrolyte powder packets
- A cooling towel or hat
- Instant ice packs
- High-protein, high-sugar, and salty snacks
- Contact information for the Homeless Navigation Program
These bags are being distributed by our Homeless Navigators and both Wheat Ridge and Edgewater PD throughout the summer. Thank you for helping us support our most vulnerable neighbors!