~ Colorado Springs, CO - As the winter season brings in frigid temperatures, Mayor Yemi Mobolade has highlighted the efforts of the entire community to protect unhoused residents from dangerous weather conditions. In a press conference today, Mayor Yemi praised the collaboration between shelter providers, the city government, and various philanthropic organizations to expand shelter capacity and provide transportation support.

The City's Severe and Extreme Winter Weather Shelter Plan was activated this past weekend as temperatures dropped below 20 degrees. Shelter providers immediately responded by expanding their capacity to accommodate more individuals in need. This included Springs Rescue Mission lifting restrictions to welcome additional guests, Hope COS opening The Sanctuary Church as a temporary shelter and providing transportation for those seeking refuge, Catholic Charities offering motel vouchers for families, and The Salvation Army continuing to support parents and children at its Family Hope Center. Additionally, partners mobilized vans and ride-sharing services to help individuals reach warmth quickly.

Mayor Yemi emphasized that this level of response does not happen by chance but is a result of careful preparation and coordination. "Long before the temperatures drop, our city and our nonprofit partners build relationships, trust, and a plan designed to save lives," he stated. "As the saying goes, 'if you fail to plan, you plan to fail'."

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To further strengthen this year's response efforts, Mayor Mobolade and Chief Housing Officer Aimee Cox led a dedicated fundraising campaign after consulting with service providers to identify increased needs across the shelter system. Their efforts were met with overwhelming support from philanthropic organizations, businesses, faith communities, and nonprofit partners who contributed a total of $860,000 in donations and commitments. These resources will be used to expand beds, staffing, emergency motel options, and transportation services throughout the winter.

"This was not just a City-led effort; it was a public-private-philanthropic-faith partnership," said Mayor Yemi. "It is the best reflection of how Colorado Springs comes together to meet our biggest challenges."

Mayor Yemi expressed his gratitude to COSILoveYou and fifteen participating churches, major philanthropic and business supporters such as El Pomar Foundation, Weidner Apartment Homes, RNR Family Foundation, Edmondson Foundation, Lane Foundation, Pikes Peak Community Foundation, Classic Homes, and anonymous donors. He also thanked the on-the-ground shelter providers - Springs Rescue Mission, Hope COS, Catholic Charities, and The Salvation Army - for their tireless efforts in providing shelter and support to those in need.

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In addition to the current efforts in place, Mayor Yemi announced a new transportation initiative that will be launched next month. During any declared Severe or Extreme Weather Event, Mountain Metro Transit will offer fare-free rides on all local fixed-route buses for individuals experiencing homelessness. This pilot program aims to bridge the gap between danger and safety by ensuring access to shelter during extreme weather conditions.

"Transportation is often the missing link between danger and safety," Mayor Yemi explained. "This pilot program closes a critical gap and ensures access to shelter when temperatures drop."

With shelters already operating at high demand, Mayor Mobolade urged residents to continue supporting providers with meals, supplies, staffing, volunteer time, and financial contributions. He encouraged residents to visit HelpCOS.org for ways they can help make a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness.

"This is what it means to be a city that shows up not when it's easy but when it matters most," he concluded. "Together, we can build a Colorado Springs where no one is left behind in the cold."

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