Denver Approves New Service Providers for Hotel-Based Homeless Shelters (Denver, Colorado)

Denver has selected three new service providers to operate its largest non-congregate homeless shelters, marking a shift in the city’s approach to addressing housing insecurity. The 300-unit, 450-bed DoubleTree by Hilton hotel at 4040 N. Quebec Street in northeast Denver has been used to house homeless individuals as part of Mayor Mike Johnston’s efforts to move people off the street and into more permanent housing. The new providers—Urban Alchemy, Bayaud Works, and St. Francis Center—will begin service on January 1, 2026, following approval by the Community Planning and Development Committee.

The city’s Department of Housing Stability stated that the selection represents a significant step forward in Denver’s transformation of its homelessness response system. Mayor Mike Johnston emphasized the importance of moving individuals off the streets as the first step toward self-sufficiency, noting that the chosen partners embody the city’s commitment to urgency, innovation, and humanity in serving those experiencing homelessness.

If approved by the full Denver City Council, Urban Alchemy will operate the Aspen Shelter at 4040 Quebec St., St. Francis Center will run the Stone Creek Shelter at 4595 Quebec St., and Bayaud Works will serve as the provider for the Tamarac Family Shelter at 7525 E. Hampden Ave. Urban Alchemy, a new provider to Denver, manages and operates shelters and transforms public spaces in cities across the country, including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Birmingham, Santa Fe, Atlanta, and Portland.

Urban Alchemy CEO Dr. Lena Miller described the organization’s goal as providing a Four Seasons-like experience and service for guests at the shelter. She emphasized the responsibility to ensure conditions inside and outside the shelters foster a sense of belonging, pride, and safety while respecting the surrounding community.

The transition to these new providers reflects a broader effort to address housing insecurity through innovative and community-focused solutions. As Denver continues to refine its approach to homelessness, the city remains committed to supporting vulnerable neighbors with dignity and care.

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