Homelessness in COS

It is no secret that increased housing insecurity is being felt throughout the nation. 

The economy, housing prices, rising rents, unemployment, the opioid epidemic and mental illness are all weighing on how individuals and families navigate their day-to-day lives. In a growing number of situations, these pressures are leading to housing insecurity and homelessness. 

The 2022 “Point-in-Time” survey indicates that Colorado Springs has seen an uptick in homelessness from 1,339 in 2020 to 1,443 in 2022 — an increase of 104. But over that same time-frame, the total number of unsheltered individuals — those living on the streets — actually decreased from 358 to 267. 

That’s a big deal. It means that there are 91 fewer people who are being exposed to violent crime, harsh weather conditions and lack of care. It is also the continuation of a positive trend we’ve seen since the number of unsheltered reached a high of 513 in 2018. 

That means that nearly half of those unsheltered four short years ago now have a safe place to sleep at night. 

Colorado Governor Jared Polis even celebrated our community’s progress after the survey’s release, saying the state “wanted to learn from cities like Colorado Springs" successfully addressing homelessness 

As we work with other service providers offering a variety of different approaches, we’re also seeing more people than ever before secure housing and escape the cycle of chronic homelessness. 

The community of Colorado Springs — service providers, businesses, churches, families, individuals and government partners — has come together to ensure access to shelter and services for those in need.