Off the Streets proposes low-barrier emergency shelter to Billings City Council

In the heart of Billings, city officials gathered under the bright lights of the council chamber, where discussions about community safety and support for the unhoused took center stage. The meeting on January 21, 2025, highlighted the urgent need for a low-barrier emergency shelter, a topic that resonated deeply with both council members and community advocates.

Representatives from Off the Streets, a local nonprofit, passionately presented their vision for addressing homelessness in the city. They emphasized the importance of collaboration with city officials, expressing a desire to be part of the solution. "We believe the city can play a part in our growth," one speaker noted, highlighting the need for more brainstorming sessions to tackle the challenges of downtown safety and homelessness.

The conversation turned to the significant role of local law enforcement, with references to Chief Saint John’s insights on the time officers spend responding to calls related to the chronically homeless. The advocates proposed creating a space where officers could drop off individuals in need without the burden of paperwork or lengthy procedures, thereby streamlining the process and enhancing community safety.

Julie, a key member of the Off the Streets team, shared her experiences on a recent podcast, emphasizing the necessity of meeting individuals experiencing homelessness where they are and providing them with appropriate services. The organization aims to not only offer emergency shelter but also to guide individuals toward a better life through community connections.

As the discussion progressed, council members expressed their support and curiosity about the proposed shelter's location. One council member inquired about potential plots of land along Sixth Avenue South, suggesting that the city might have opportunities for development. The Off the Streets team confirmed their interest in a specific site, the Yellowstone Paper Company, which they believe could serve as an ideal location for their low-barrier shelter and transitional housing.

The advocates explained that their feasibility study indicated a strong alignment between their needs and the potential of the site. They envisioned a facility that would not only provide emergency shelter but also integrate transitional housing, allowing individuals to access necessary services without interruption.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism and urgency. Council members acknowledged the pressing need for transitional housing in Billings, a gap that has been identified in previous discussions. As the city prepares to explore land options, the advocates remain hopeful that their vision for a supportive, integrated approach to homelessness will soon become a reality.

With the community's safety and well-being at stake, the collaboration between city officials and local organizations like Off the Streets could pave the way for a brighter future for those in need. The path forward may require more meetings and brainstorming, but the commitment to finding solutions is clear.