SANTA FE, March 25, 2024 – The City of Santa Fe announces the opening of its first Safe Outdoor Space, a significant milestone in addressing the pressing issue of housing insecurity in our community.

The community is invited for a site tour of the Safe Outdoor Space (SOS) at Christ Lutheran Church at 1701 Arroyo Chamiso Road on March 25 beginning at 11:30 a.m. This initiative, in a resolution approved by the Governing Body in April 2023, reflects the City's commitment to finding innovative solutions and fostering collaboration among various organizations.

The City purchased 25 Pallet shelters for the pilot program, which is part of the City’s Built for Zero model for addressing homelessness.

Chris Lutheran was the sole site selected by the City to host the 10-shelter village. The City has also funded a contract with The Life Link to be the site operator providing vital case management, behavioral health, employment, and hygiene services at the site with the goal of moving residents to permanent housing.

The SOS is built on a trauma-informed approach, with pallet shelters designed to offer a safe and secure environment for individuals in need. These shelters not only provide a place to sleep but also prioritize the well-being and dignity of each resident.

In addition to the City, the Community Investment Alliance, Project Moxie, Anchorum, S3, Christ Lutheran Church, and The Life Link contributed to making the SOS a reality.

“We continue to look for solutions to homelessness. The obvious solution is more places for unhoused people to have safe, personal places to live and also to have services and amenities for their overall well-being,” said Mayor Alan Webber. “This first Safe Outdoor space is a testimony to the hard work of City staff, the leadership of Christ Lutheran Church, The Life Link, and the many individuals and organizations that are committed to this shared cause. Finally, it's made possible by the people of Santa Fe and our shared values as a community."

As Santa Fe continues to prioritize initiatives that promote housing stability and support for vulnerable populations, the opening of the SOS marks a significant step forward in building a more inclusive and compassionate community.