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Local nonprofit pitches permanent supportive housing pilot to serve older, chronically unhoused men
Summary
A local nonprofit advocate proposed a permanent supportive housing pilot to serve roughly 15–20 older, chronically unhoused men with complex needs, asking the city to help identify land and assist with zoning and permitting support.
Pueblo — An advocate and program assistant at Southern Colorado Health Network introduced a proposal on Monday for a small permanent supportive housing (PSH) pilot aimed at single, chronically unhoused men — many born and raised in Pueblo, often over age 60 and with co-occurring behavioral health or substance-use diagnoses.
The presenter said emergency shelters were at about 93% capacity and that the city’s most recent point-in-time count found about 510 unhoused individuals, up about 40% from prior counts. The proposed pilot would house 15–20 residents in a shared "barracks-style" facility with private bedrooms locked from the inside, shared kitchens and restrooms, 24-hour staffing, no sobriety requirement and a requirement that each resident have an active case manager.
The project lead said she is not seeking general fund support and expects much of ongoing operations to be covered by resident rent (capped at 30% of income), HUD housing vouchers, Medicaid billing and grants; capital costs (the building) would likely need fundraising or donated/surplus land support. The presenter asked city council to help identify city- or surplus-owned property, support zoning or permitting accommodations and connect the group with funders and service partners. She said similar PSH models nationally report high retention rates and reduced emergency room and jail use, and estimated a $6 return for every $1 invested.
Council members asked about point-in-time data and partners. A mayoral staffer confirmed the most recent count showed 510 individuals; the presenter said earlier figures (359) were based on a prior PIT count. Councilor Flores and others asked about partnerships; the presenter said she is already working with Posada and other local providers and is seeking further coordination.
No votes occurred; the item was an informational presentation and the presenter said she would follow up with staff about potential property options and funding connections.
Speakers quoted and who spoke in the meeting are listed below.
