Evictions Hit Near Record as Denver’s Leaders Fail to Address Growing Homelessness
Denver, like many other major cities across the country, is facing a looming crisis as evictions are on the rise. With the city's Department of Housing Stability projecting a staggering 12,000 eviction filings this year, Mayor Mike Johnston has declared it a "crisis" that must be addressed immediately.
The increase in evictions is a direct result of skyrocketing rental prices and the expiration of federal rental assistance programs. This is a problem that is not unique to Denver, as other poorly run Democrat-led cities are also facing similar challenges.
And the consequences of evictions are dire. Not only do they directly contribute to the growing homelessness crisis in the metro Denver area, but they also leave a lasting impact on individuals and families. Studies have shown that those who are evicted often struggle to find new housing and retain employment, leaving them vulnerable and at risk of falling into a cycle of poverty. The trauma associated with evictions can even lead to symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
In an effort to address this issue, the city has allocated $12.6 million in its 2023-24 budget for rent and utility assistance. However, this is a significant decrease from the previous year's budget of $21.4 million and anticipated spending of $20.6 million due to a loss of federal pandemic aid money. This is simply not enough to meet the growing demand and provide meaningful relief to struggling individuals and families.
Furthermore, eviction is also one of the top self-reported reasons for homelessness in Denver. In fact, a recent report from the Metro Denver Homeless Initiative found that the inability to pay rent or mortgage was the number one reason for homelessness in the area. This only further highlights the urgency of addressing the eviction crisis in the city.
The situation in Denver is not an isolated incident. Across the country, eviction filings have risen by more than 50% from pre-pandemic levels. And with a shortage of 7.3 million rental homes affordable and available to those with extremely low incomes nationwide.
It's time for Democrat-led cities to take responsibility for their poor management and failed policies that have contributed to this crisis. With a shortage of affordable housing, limited rental assistance, and rising evictions, it's no surprise that families and individuals are suffering.
It's time to put the needs of Americans first and work towards real solutions that will provide long-term stability for those struggling to make ends meet.