Larimer County proclaims April 2026 Fair Housing Month and spotlights Sherwood House bridge housing

The Larimer County Board of County Commissioners on March 31 proclaimed April 2026 as Fair Housing Month and recognized the Family Housing Network’s Sherwood House bridge‑housing program for families experiencing homelessness.

Lexi Valente, housing liaison for the Office of Housing Stability, described Sherwood House as a bridge‑housing model that “offers families the vital time and space necessary to transition from homelessness to self sufficiency.” Annette Zacharias, executive director of Family Housing Network, said the program grew from a rotational faith‑based shelter into a renovated, permanent co‑housing site that now supports higher‑acuity families who need longer stabilization; the program typically houses seven to eight families at a time with case management, connections to mental‑health and childcare supports, and volunteer assistance.

Commissioner Kristen Stevens asked about volunteer and engagement options; Family Housing Network said volunteers and potential guests can contact their office or visit the organization's website and provided a phone number: (970) 484‑3342. Stevens read the board’s proclamation noting federal and state protections for familial status and the county’s interest in reducing barriers to housing, then moved to approve the proclamation. The board approved the motion by voice vote (recorded 'Aye'), with the action recorded as passing 2‑0. The board paused briefly to take photographs with attendees.

The board’s proclamation and the presentation highlighted community partnerships and volunteer roles in the Sherwood House model, and encouraged residents and organizations to raise awareness and support local services during Fair Housing Month.