FHLBank employees toured the Fort Collins Rescue Mission, a 2024 FHLBank Topeka Affordable Housing Program (AHP) recipient. The 38,000-square-foot, state-of-the art facility is nearly completed. The new space will replace a current shelter in Old Town Fort Collins with 89 beds. It will expand the number of guests served with 250 beds planned in addition to space for supportive services, like private areas for case management to assist with behavioral health and job placement.

The $1.5 million AHP grant, supported by FirstBank in Lakewood, provided gap financing for the new facility. The trauma-informed design of the facility will create a dignified space for comfort and healing. During the tour, Dennis Van Kampen, President and CEO of the Denver and Fort Collins Rescue Missions, shared the design is being looked to as the model for many shelters across the country. “Our vision to end homelessness,” said Van Kampen. “We hope that by building spaces like these and offering the services we do we’ll put ourselves out of business one day.”

The dorms throughout the space will be organized in neighborhoods. The neighborhoods will be customized for the residents who live there. For example, a working guest neighborhood is planned with quiet hours during the day for shift workers. A recovery neighborhood will provide individualized care. Having resources easily accessible, many steps from the dorms, makes it more likely guests will take advantage of them.

The increased size of the new space also means that the need for winter overflow shelters will diminish. A new day center for guests allows for intake and a space in a safe environment that provides refuge from extreme temperatures. Safety throughout both the inside and outside spaces is enhanced, and ADA accessibility makes the facility welcoming to all.

The new shelter plans to open its doors in early 2027. “Securing the AHP funds made a real difference and is a big reason we were able to make the construction a reality,” said Van Kampen.