2 days ago
Denver changes its mind and will keep center that aids homeless open afterall
DENVER (KDVR) — News that Denver's AID Center would be shutting down came as a shock to many who depend on services at its office in the downtown area.
Signs were posted on the windows of the center saying it would close on June 15. The Assessment, Intake and Diversion Center is one of the places James LeTempt seeks all kinds of help.
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'(I get) socks, underwear, hygiene (supplies), food and stuff like that,' LeTempt said.
Letempt told FOX31 the center has helped stay on a good path and stay sober by helping with finding work and housing.
The AID center is across from the Denver County Jail and had signs posted that said it would shut down on June 15. But late Thursday afternoon, an announcement came saying the center would stay open.
'We have made the decision to postpone the closure of the AID Center and provide limited services while we determine a sustainable, long-term vision both for the space itself and for the resources it offers,' Office of Social Equity and Innovation Chief Equity Officer Ben Sanders said.
The center's website says the AID Center offers, among other things, housing assistance, substance misuse support and sober living services.
Many people FOX31 spoke to said it came as a shock when they saw this sign posted a few days ago saying the center would close. It was a big hit for the homeless community, said Mat Bolten, who works with Tribe Recovery Homes, which has a space in the AID Center.
'This (AID Center) is where they come for whatever resources they need. Whether it be recovery from substance abuse, housing, whether it be something as simple as peer coaching,' Bolten said.
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FOX31 was told the office and space may be transformed, but it will be used to help end street homelessness.
Together Denver's Amy Beck said the AID Center is badly needed.
'This serves our jail, serves our court system, our micro community and a lot of people rely on this place for services, Beck said.
What kind of services will still be offered at the center is not clear. Many though are glad, it's not shutting down at least for now.
A spokesperson said the AID center will still be open in its current form at least through the summer. The Office of Social Equity and Innovation said it understood the announcement of a closure caught people off guard and apologized for the confusion.
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