The Salvation Army announced plans to lay off 93 employees in Denver by the end of this year, following its decision to cease operations at three city homeless shelters. This announcement was formalized in a notice filed on October 4, 2023, as the organization transitions management of the Aspen, Stone Creek, and Tamarack Family shelters to new operators.
In August, the Salvation Army revealed it would stop overseeing these facilities after its contracts with the city of Denver concluded in December. The organization cited the need for financial stability in its decision, which coincided with mounting criticism from Denver City Council members and homeless advocates regarding management practices and reported criminal activity at the shelters.
Transition Support for Affected Employees
In a statement, spokesperson Jennifer Forker emphasized the organization’s commitment to facilitating a smooth transition for both staff and the community members relying on these shelters. “Our staff are at the heart of our mission and have been offered comprehensive support, including job placement assistance, counseling, and severance for those eligible,” Forker stated.
The Salvation Army is collaborating with the new service providers—Urban Alchemy, Bayaud Works, and St. Francis Center—as well as the Denver Department of Housing Stability to ensure minimal disruption for employees and clients.
City officials announced on October 9, 2023, the selection of these three operators to take over the management of the hotel shelters. Derek Woodbury, a spokesperson for the Department of Housing Stability, expressed appreciation for the compassion and professionalism displayed by the shelter workers throughout their service.
Future of Homeless Services in Denver
As the transition unfolds, Denver officials are actively working with the Salvation Army to connect affected employees with available positions at the new service providers or other shelters within the city’s homelessness response system.
Woodbury noted the importance of the support provided by the shelter workers in addressing homelessness in the area, highlighting the community’s reliance on these essential services. The shift in management comes during a critical period as the city seeks to enhance its approach to homelessness, aiming for improved outcomes for both service providers and those in need.
The Salvation Army’s decision reflects broader challenges within the nonprofit sector, where financial sustainability and effective management are increasingly scrutinized. As the organization navigates this transition, the focus remains on ensuring that vulnerable populations continue to receive the support they need during this critical period.
