Hundreds of asylum-seekers and migrants have arrived in Denver from South and Central America over the past two weeks. Mayor Hancock issued an emergency declaration and is calling on the entire community to assist with sheltering, feeding, clothing, and meeting other essential needs of these new arrivals, particularly as winter weather sets in. Here are several ways you can help, and more information can be found here at this link.
- If you or your organization has physical space that could be used for sheltering or temporary housing, please email donations@denvergov.org. The City is currently utilizing two recreation centers as emergency shelters, and several churches are also providing space.
- One of the City’s biggest needs is for volunteers to cover shifts at the rec center shelters and to support the work of the nonprofits that are aiding in the sheltering effort. Here is a link to the volunteer sign-up form. (Even though the link indicates this is for medical and public health volunteers, it really is accepting volunteers of all kinds.)
- Donations of winter clothing and other items are needed. Click here for a current list of items needed. Items can be dropped off from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Iglesia Ciudad de Dios, 5255 W. Warren Ave., Denver CO 80227.
- Several nonprofits are also supporting this effort and are accepting direct financial contributions. Here are links to those organizations: