The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has officially broken ground on a new facility in Denver aimed at providing affordable housing for veterans experiencing homelessness. This initiative, which transforms a former hotel into a supportive living environment, underscores the nonprofit’s commitment to addressing veteran homelessness in the community.
Key Takeaways
- The Tunnel to Towers Foundation is converting the former Fairfield Inn in Denver’s Virginia Village into a housing complex for veterans.
- The facility will offer approximately 120 permanent housing units with supportive services.
- Residents will pay only 30% of their income towards rent, with utilities included.
- On-site services will include case management, behavioral health assistance, and employment support.
- The project aims to open by late 2025 or early 2026.
Background of the Initiative
Founded in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation has dedicated itself to supporting veterans and first responders. The new Denver Veterans Village is part of a broader mission to combat homelessness among veterans, a pressing issue in many communities across the United States.
The Project Details
The former Fairfield Inn will undergo extensive renovations to create a welcoming and supportive environment for veterans. Key features of the project include:
- Housing Units: Approximately 120 permanent units designed for veterans.
- Affordability: Residents will only pay 30% of their monthly income, making it financially accessible.
- Supportive Services: Comprehensive services will be available on-site, including:
- Case management
- Behavioral health assistance
- Employment assistance
- VA claims support
- Peer support programs
Community Support and Involvement
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by various community leaders, including Colorado National Guard State Chaplain David Nagel, who offered a prayer for the project. Nagel expressed gratitude for the community’s commitment to helping its neighbors in need.
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has also emphasized the importance of addressing veteran homelessness. In a recent announcement, he highlighted a partnership with the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System and the Denver Housing Authority to expedite housing applications for veterans. The mayor noted that there were 52 veterans experiencing homelessness in the city, a number he believes is manageable with concerted efforts.
Future Outlook
As the Tunnel to Towers Foundation moves forward with the Denver Veterans Village, the organization is currently in the design and permitting phase. Gavin Naples, vice president of the foundation’s homeless veteran program, indicated that they hope to open the facility by late 2025 or early 2026.
Naples encourages veterans who are currently unhoused to reach out to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation for immediate assistance. The foundation’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for veterans is a significant step towards ending homelessness in the community.
This initiative not only aims to provide housing but also to reintegrate veterans into society, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s efforts in Denver serve as a model for similar initiatives across the country, highlighting the importance of community involvement in addressing veteran homelessness.
Sources
- YouTube, YouTube · Denver7.
- Nonprofit breaks ground on Denver facility for unhoused veterans, Denver7.
