Off the Streets expands Billings services with new low barrier shelter for chronic homelessness

The Billings City Council Work Session on January 21, 2025, highlighted the urgent need for solutions to homelessness in the community, particularly focusing on the chronically homeless population. Representatives from Off the Streets, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving this vulnerable group, presented their mission and recent successes, emphasizing the importance of low-barrier shelter options.

Julie, a volunteer and community outreach director for Off the Streets, shared that approximately 600 individuals experience homelessness in Billings on any given night, with around 100 classified as chronically homeless. This group often faces significant barriers to traditional shelter programs due to mental health issues, addiction, or lack of social skills. Off the Streets aims to fill this gap by providing a welcoming environment where individuals can receive support tailored to their unique needs.

Since its inception in January 2022, Off the Streets has opened two shelter rooms, accommodating 12 individuals, and recently expanded to 24 beds. The organization has reported a 50% success rate in helping residents transition to stable housing and a 44% employment rate among those served. These figures underscore the effectiveness of their approach, which combines shelter with case management and community resources.

The organization’s leadership, including Executive Director Ken Kerber, expressed a desire to collaborate with the city council to explore funding opportunities and land for future expansion. They proposed using Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds or Community Development Block Grant funds to support their mission. Kerber emphasized the need for a permanent low-barrier shelter that could serve as a hub for various services, including transitional housing, to better support individuals in their journey toward stability.

Council members acknowledged the critical role of Off the Streets in addressing homelessness and the importance of collaboration among local organizations. They discussed the potential for integrating services with existing providers like the Montana Rescue Mission and the need for a coordinated approach to tackle the complex issues surrounding homelessness.

As the meeting concluded, the council expressed interest in further discussions with Off the Streets to explore how the city can assist in their mission. The ongoing dialogue reflects a community commitment to finding sustainable solutions to homelessness, ensuring that those in need have access to the support and resources necessary to rebuild their lives.