HRDC issues ‘Code Blue’ for unhoused population facing cold weather

EBS STAFF

With severe cold weather incoming, unhoused Gallatin Valley community members are at high risk for exposure-related injuries. 

A Jan. 11 press release from the Human Resources Development Council announced “Code Blue” designation, which extends normal hours at shelters, effective Friday morning at 7 a.m. through Monday at 7 p.m. Brian Guyer, HRDC housing director, stated that it’s a necessary but costly action to take. 

“While our Bozeman and Livingston emergency overnight shelters are not currently funded to be open during daytime hours, we are extremely concerned about our guests’ safety. We can use all the support our community can provide to help keep our doors open around the clock for anyone seeking a warm, safe place to stay. Getting people out of the elements is our top concern,” Guyer stated in the release.

On multiple occasions this winter, HRDC’s Bozeman emergency shelter has experienced near-capacity usage—with 100 guests or more—despite the relatively mild temperatures, according to the release. The high volume of usage comes after HRDC doubled its emergency shelter capacity in Bozeman and Livingston in 2021. 

“HRDC shelters up to 120 individuals each night and provides non-congregate shelter for families and individuals needing medical respite at a second Bozeman location. Regrettably, even with these facilities, seven people passed away while unhoused last year,” the release stated. 

The 2023 annual Point in Time count revealed a 41% rise in homelessness in Bozeman and Livingston from the previous year, with 261 total individuals. Data shows a spike among youth, seniors and families with children. 

“Our guests come from every walk of life,” stated Jenna Huey, HRDC emergency shelter services manager. “Whether it’s a loss of income, significant rent increase, unexpected medical costs, or the loss of a loved one – any major life change can lead to someone becoming unhoused. Over the past couple of years, we’ve been particularly concerned with the fast-growing population of people seeking shelter who are 60 and older. It’s truly heartbreaking to see so many of our most cherished neighbors in need of a place to stay, especially during frigid weather.”