As we head into the Christmas holiday, we want to share an important update on shelter operations at Fort Collins Rescue Mission—and how, together, we are responding to urgent needs during the coldest months of the year.
A Delay in Reopening Our Shelter
About two weeks ago, we learned that fire mitigation and restoration work at our Jefferson Street shelter will take longer than originally anticipated. As a result, our return to that location—and access to its 89 shelter beds—may be delayed until early February.
Since the fire in August, we have been operating a 70-bed overflow shelter on Mason Street. Even with that space, we have had to turn away an average of 12 men each night simply due to lack of capacity. With winter temperatures dropping, this reality compelled us to act quickly.
We’ve had to turn away guests more than 1,000 times since the fire.
Seth Forwood, Vice President of Programs – Northern Colorado (December 23, 2025)
An Immediate Solution at Harvest Farm
Over the past ten days, our Northern Colorado team worked tirelessly to convert a vacant building on our Harvest Farm property in Wellington into a temporary overnight overflow shelter for up to 30 men. This space was once used for a small community thrift store many years ago, called “Mom’s Closet.” Since then, it’s been used for storage at Harvest Farm, but we’re confident this new use of the space will help provide life-saving overflow shelter in the coldest months of the year.
This new space is now operational and will soon include an adjacent bathroom and shower trailer.
To ensure safety and structure, guests are transported each evening from the Mason Street overflow shelter to Harvest Farm and returned each morning. They do not interact with New Life Program participants at the Farm.
On it’s first night in use on December 22, we had zero turn aways as a result of opening up the extra space.
Safety and Partnership First
We have worked closely with government officials in both Wellington and Larimer County to confirm that the building meets all safety and health code requirements. These partnerships have been essential in helping us move quickly while maintaining the highest standards of care.
Your Support Is Saving Lives
This interim shelter is possible because of your generous donations in response to the fire. As colder temperatures return in the coming days, this additional space will quite literally save lives. We are deeply grateful for your partnership and compassion.
We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available in the New Year. Thank you for standing with us—and with the men who need warmth, safety, and hope this winter.
