For many adults experiencing homelessness, the story began in childhood. In fact, 43 percent of adults experiencing homelessness first experienced it as a child.  

That’s where the power of prevention comes in. By intervening early and supporting families before they lose stable housing, we can prevent children from experiencing homelessness altogether.  

In October 2025, Denver Rescue Mission launched a Prevention program. Our goal is simple yet transformative: stop homelessness before it starts, one family at a time. As the program has continued to grow, we’ve seen its impact firsthand through the countless stories of families whose lives have been changed by the support they received. 

What is the Prevention Program?  

The Prevention program is designed to support families who are currently in stable housing but are facing an unexpected financial crisis that could lead to homelessness for the first time.

The program relies on strong community partnerships, working closely with the Poudre School District and Jefferson County Public Schools to identify families with children who need temporary assistance.

By meeting a critical, financial need at the right moment, we can help families remain safely housed and prevent homelessness before it begins.  

Prevention Program by the Numbers

 

106 families

Stayed in housing

including 211 children

1,398 hours

of direct services provided by staff

with 73% dedicated to case management

More than 11 hours

of individualized support

provided per family, on average

Stories of Hope

Louisanna first connected with Denver Rescue Mission through a referral from the Poudre School District. School staff recognized that her family was experiencing financial hardship and housing instability and connected her with our Prevention program before the situation escalated into homelessness.

The support she received provided more than financial relief, it gave her family the opportunity to regain stability, focus on the future and move forward with hope. Her story is a powerful reminder that when help comes at the right time, a temporary setback doesn’t have to become a lifelong crisis.
Louisanna, Prevention Program Participant
When K was referred to Denver Rescue Mission’s Prevention program by her school family liaison, her family was facing mounting financial hardship after her husband’s work hours were reduced, and their savings were exhausted. By January, they had fallen behind on rent and were struggling to afford essentials like food and phone service.

Through the Prevention program, K partnered with a case manager to build a realistic monthly budget, helping her better understand her family’s finances and regain a sense of control. “Working on the budget took fear out of me,” K shared. “Because of your case management, I felt empowered.” K’s family found stability, renewed hope and the support they needed to avoid homelessness.
“K”, Prevention Program Participant
“Helping families remain stably housed gives me a sense of purpose. I believe we are all just one step away from needing the same support we offer others, and knowing there are people committed to helping families stay housed has renewed my sense of human kindness.

Families have expressed a great deal of gratitude. Even though most cases are resolved within three to four weeks, trusting relationships form quickly. While case management isn’t a long-term service, families know others care, are praying for them and that they matter.”
Amy Manceaux, Prevention Case Manager

A Brighter Future for Families

As the Prevention program continues to grow, so does our vision for what is possible. Every family we help to avoid homelessness represents a stronger future for parents, children and our community.

With the continued generosity of our community and the strength of our partnerships, we can help more families find the stability, hope and support they need to thrive for years to come.

“It saved us. It saved us a lot of headaches, heartaches, struggles, and stress during an already incredibly stressful time,”- Audrianna, Prevention Program Participant
Read more about the first family served through our Prevention program here!
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Written by Victoria Corral, Communications and Events Intern