Bozeman, MONT. – The frigid temperatures that have recently plagued Bozeman and the surrounding area are forecast to continue through the upcoming holiday weekend putting community members who are unhoused at high risk for exposure-related injury.

Brian Guyer, HRDC’s Housing Director, issued the Code Blue warning designation this morning saying, “This is a very necessary, but costly action to take. While our Bozeman Warming Center is not currently funded to be open during daytime hours on Fridays and Saturdays, we are extremely concerned about our guests’ safety and can use all the support the community can provide to help us keep our doors open.”

 

In 2021, due to the growing need for emergency shelter in our area, HRDC doubled its capacity at both its Bozeman and Livingston shelter locations. “Our guests come from every walk of life. While we don’t necessarily think of it in these terms, one or two major crises can upend the trajectory of someone’s life – whether it’s a loss of income, significant unexpected medical costs or the loss of a loved one –  any combination of major life changes can lead to someone finding themselves unhoused, especially in Southwest Montana amid the affordable housing crisis we are experiencing,” said Jenna Huey, HRDC’s Emergency Shelter Services Manager. Huey continued, “Beyond all else, we believe everyone deserves a warm, safe place to sleep at night and we are committed to keeping our doors open during this period of severe weather so that people can come in out of the cold.”

With seven lives lost in the Bozeman area this past year due to exposure-related causes, HRDC strongly believes that the community not only deserves better but can do better. Amplified community outreach has increased engagement allowing HRDC to expand its seasonal shelter hours. With the lengthy cold streak in place, however, additional community support is needed. Cash donations to the Warming Center 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.