During the winter months, people experiencing unsheltered homelessness face increased risk. Exposure to cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia, a condition that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce. Limited access to insulated clothing and warm shelter heightens the danger, particularly at night when temperatures often fall below freezing.
For some people, being unhoused begins with sleeping in their car. While a vehicle can provide temporary shelter, it often comes with new challenges, including limited access to safe parking, restrooms and heat. As temperatures drop, staying warm overnight becomes difficult, especially for those who cannot afford fuel or risk drawing attention by running their engines for extended periods.
First United Methodist Church of Fort Collins has been in the process of creating a program called Safe Parking, which aims to aid individuals experiencing homelessness by offering designated, legal places to park overnight, along with access to restrooms and connections to supportive services. These programs also provide a sense of stability and community as participants work toward securing permanent housing…