Homeless families becoming more numerous in Colorado Springs

A local expert says homeless families are rarely seen in Colorado Springs but their numbers are increasing.

Beth Roalstad, of Homeward Pikes Peak, said according to the last count conducted a year ago, the city has around 1,200 homeless families.

“The reasons are because of the lack of affordable housing and rising rents,” she said. “If you add a job loss or a big medical bill, it’s more than most of these families can handle.”

A new one-day, “point in time” count of the homeless will be conducted later this month.

“I think we’re going to see more homeless families,” Roalstad said. “Unfortunately, the resources aren’t keeping up. There are only a few programs specifically for homeless families but they’re all full. There are 90-day waits and waiting lists. I know that can be frustrating for a family.”

KRDO NewsChannel 13 spoke with a homeless family Thursday. Samantha Mills and her husband have two young children and a baby on the way. Mills said she and her family moved to Colorado Springs from Pueblo after she lost her job and was evicted for not paying rent.

“It’s hard,” she said. “My husband doesn’t have an ID card that would help him get a job. I’ve applied for jobs but not gotten calls back. We’re living in a tent right now. The shelters won’t let couples stay together and I can’t rent another place because of the eviction on my record. Everybody needs a second chance.”

Roalstad asks that people donate to homeless agencies so that people who are in the greatest need can get help first.