Santa Fe expands homelessness response with new micro communities and staff

The Santa Fe City Council has announced a significant expansion of its homelessness response initiatives, aiming to establish two new micro communities to alleviate pressure on existing shelters. This decision, made during the budget meeting on April 25, 2025, reflects the city's ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness through innovative solutions.

The council plans to enhance its Connect program, which collaborates with the 2-1-1 service to provide essential resources and support for those in need. Additionally, the city will continue its cash assistance and eviction prevention efforts, alongside engaging landlords to foster cooperation in housing solutions. The Human Services Commission and the Children Youth Commission will also maintain their funding, supporting around 30 organizations that offer safety net and navigation services.

A notable development is the addition of three new program managers dedicated to data management, eviction prevention, and emergency homelessness response. This expansion will increase the homelessness team from one to four full-time employees, allowing for a more structured approach to intervention similar to models used in other cities.

The council is also set to enhance community outreach and public safety teams, with plans to seek one-time funding for these initiatives in the near future. This comprehensive strategy aims to create a more effective and responsive system for addressing homelessness in Santa Fe, ensuring that the city can better meet the needs of its vulnerable populations.

As these initiatives move forward, the city council remains focused on fostering collaboration and innovation in its approach to homelessness, with the goal of creating a safer and more supportive community for all residents.