Pictured: Site of future Aurora Regional Navigation Campus
With your generosity and support, homelessness is decreasing in Douglas County. But there are people who still need help. That’s why Douglas County is partnering with the City of Aurora and others to provide resources and shelter for people experiencing homelessness.
During a regular business meeting Tuesday, April 23, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners entered into an Intergovernmental Agreement with the City of Aurora to help fund the Aurora Regional Navigation Campus to support those experiencing homelessness or housing instability. The County agreed to contribute $1.125 million of its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding.
“For the percentage of unhoused individuals who are not service-resistant or justice-involved, we are pleased to partner with Aurora and others in the region to ensure case management and wrap-around services are available to those seeking a dignified pathway to self-reliance,” said Commissioner Abe Laydon,” founder and chair of the County’s Homeless Initiative.
The new Aurora Regional Navigation Campus, located at 15550 E. 40th Ave in Aurora, will provide a variety of services for people experiencing homelessness such as transitional housing, employment services, workforce development, daytime shelter, emergency shelter, medical clinics, addiction counseling, mental health services, medical respite beds, housing navigation, case management and meals. The campus will accommodate service animals and pets.
As a partner, Douglas County will have access to the campus for qualifying individuals. The agreement also includes five beds assigned for Douglas County use. Eligible individuals will be referred by the Homeless Engagement Assistance and Resource Assistance Team (HEART).
Also partnering on the navigation center are Adams County, Arapahoe County, Aurora Housing and Urban Development and the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. The campus is expected to open as early as 2025.
The Douglas County Homeless Initiative began in 2022 with the goal of addressing homelessness in Douglas County with compassion by partnering with others, including municipalities, non-profits, law enforcement agencies, faith leaders, mental health experts, the school district, and individual residents.
The Homeless Initiative has since launched the HEART co-response team, Douglas Has Heart giving campaign and provided resources to businesses. Learn more about the Douglas County Homeless Initiative online and sign up to receive email updates.