Code Blue Warning Issued by HRDC's Shelter In Response to Arctic Cold Front

BOZEMAN – Severe cold weather is forecast to hit the region beginning on Friday putting community members who are unhoused at high risk for exposure-related injuries.

Brian Guyer, HRDC’s Housing Director, issued the Code Blue designation which will begin at 7:00 am Friday and continue through 7:00 pm Monday depending on conditions saying, “This is always a very 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.”

In 2021, HRDC doubled its emergency shelter capacity in both Bozeman and Livingston. Now in 2024, its Bozeman emergency shelter is experiencing near capacity usage with 100 guests or more on multiple occasions already this winter, even with the mild temperatures. “Our guests come from every walk of life. 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,” said Jenna Huey, HRDC’s Emergency Shelter Services Manager. Huey continued, “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.”

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 2023 annual Point in Time count revealed a significant increase in homelessness in Bozeman and Livingston, with 261 individuals recorded, marking a 41% rise from the previous year. Notably, there were spikes in homelessness among youth, families with children, and seniors. HRDC acknowledges the compassionate nature of these communities and relies on their support to assist those in need during the winter season.

Donations to HRDC’s Warming Centers can be made online by visiting https://thehrdc.org/donate/ or can be submitted by mail to HRDC, c/o The Warming Center, 32 S. Tracy Avenue, Bozeman, MT 59715.