Homeless Outreach Team expands services to address homelessness in Thornton

In the heart of Thornton City Hall, city council members gathered on April 15, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding homelessness and community resources. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as council members discussed the city's approach to providing support for those in need, particularly through the use of community spaces.

One of the key points raised during the meeting was the underutilization of Community Connections as a resource for individuals seeking assistance. A council member expressed frustration that the recreation center was being used as a warming shelter, suggesting that essential supplies like toiletries should be provided at Community Connections instead. This sentiment highlighted a broader concern about the allocation of resources and the need for a more strategic approach to addressing homelessness in the city.

The discussion transitioned to the city's Homeless Outreach Team (HOTT), which has expanded its staff from 1.5 to four full-time employees since its inception in 2021. The team is dedicated to connecting with individuals experiencing homelessness, offering vital resources, and facilitating access to services. They conduct outreach in various ways, including direct engagement with community members and businesses, as well as managing a hotline for reporting encampments and requesting assistance.

Council members emphasized the importance of a coordinated response to homelessness, recognizing it as a regional issue that requires collaboration with neighboring communities. The outreach team has implemented initiatives such as the Empowerment Expo, which brings together multiple service providers to offer meals, employment guidance, and health services to those in need.

As the meeting progressed, the council explored the effectiveness of case management services offered by HOTT. These services are tailored to individual needs, focusing on securing employment, housing, and essential documents. While the team is still developing metrics to track success rates, they reported that 17 individuals were successfully transitioned into housing in the previous year.

The conversation underscored the complexities of addressing homelessness and the necessity for ongoing dialogue and resource allocation. As the council concluded its session, the commitment to enhancing support for vulnerable populations remained clear, with a focus on ensuring that all residents have access to the resources they need to thrive. The meeting left attendees with a sense of hope and determination to continue working towards effective solutions for the community.