January 2026: our only shelter closes. Hundreds could be left outside in Grand Junction's winter.
Growing up in Grand Junction, I've witnessed firsthand the growing crisis of homelessness. As a teenager in this community, I see families, teens, and children struggling daily, and it breaks my heart to know they might soon lose the little safety and security they have. When the current shelter closes in January 2026, where will they go?
These aren't strangers, they are people I see at the grocery store, on Main Street, or simply outside trying to find warmth during our harsh winters. Homelessness in Grand Junction is not just a statistic; it’s a reality that affects hundreds of individuals. According to available data, homelessness has been increasing, not decreasing, in our community. A 2021 federal data based report counted 465 people experiencing homelessness in Mesa County during a single night. Community sources and nonprofit organizations also report that the need for shelter and services continues to grow. Yet the absence of a long-term, permanent solution leaves our unhoused community vulnerable and overlooked. A temporary shelter is not enough; we urgently need a permanent, long-term shelter to provide stability and safety for those without homes. This isn't just about providing a roof but creating a supportive environment where people can rebuild their lives. Such a facility should offer basic amenities, mental health support, job training programs, and pathways to permanent housing. We need our local leaders, particularly those in the Grand Junction city government and Mesa County authorities, to recognize the urgent need for action and collaborate with nonprofits and community organizations to develop a comprehensive plan. Together, we can ensure that every individual in Grand Junction has access to a secure and supportive place where they can sleep peacefully, knowing they are not alone. I urge you to take a stand against homelessness in Grand Junction. Help us call on the city and county officials to work collaboratively towards a permanent shelter solution. Sign this petition to show your support and safeguard the dignity and safety of all our community members. Every signature brings us a step closer to a profound and lasting change.