Last year, the Bridge Emergency Shelter provided lodging and meals to more than 40 homeless citizens on some nights. It reopens on Monday.
Located in the old Montezuma County jail on the corner of Empire and Mildred streets, the shelter is open from October to April. Patrons are allowed to check in daily starting at 6 p.m. They must check out by 7 a.m.
“For the past 10 years, the Bridge has been a dependable source of shelter, food and clothing for innumerable adult men and women in need,” said shelter director Laurie Knutson.
Last winter, the Bridge provided space for 282 different individuals, and a bed was slept in 5,379 nights. On average last season, 26 guests were housed. Some nights, 44 guests were served.
“These numbers have doubled over the last decade,” said Knutson. “Like so many other communities, Cortez is seeing growing numbers of homeless as stagnant wages and rapidly increasing rents are displacing more and more individuals and families.”
With four rooms designated for men and two for women, the shelter also features a dining room and full kitchen, living space and two staff offices.
“Homeless shelters not only save lives, but they save costs for the communities in which they are located,” Knutson added.
Knutson explained that the shelter provides law enforcement an option to drop off an individual without charges, and the shelter also administers minor first aid helping to reduce emergency room visits.
The Bridge also provides support, referrals for medical, mental health and substance abuse issues and also works with guests to plan a path out of homelessness. “Many of those who are homeless are working,” said Knutson. “Even more are seeking work, and all of this contributes to the local economy.”
Knutson credits the community’s decision to provide a shelter, stating it reveals true compassion.
“Welcoming the stranger, showing care and providing opportunities are hallmarks of healthy and progressive communities,” she said.
tbaker@the-journal.com