About Colorado Coalition for the Homeless – Las Animas
The Fort Lyon Supportive Residential Community offers peer based transitional housing with 250 beds in Las Animas within Bent County, Colorado. This program was created to reuse the former Fort Lyon VA Hospital site. They assist underserved populations like the homeless or those with substance use disorders. They partner with many local and state agencies.
The facility is a sprawling open campus in a rural setting about three miles northeast of downtown Las Animas and four miles north of Boggsville Historic Site. The Arkansas River provides scenic views and outdoor recreational opportunities for residents. The campus also boasts 552 acres of outdoor walking space and bicycle checkout, gymnasium, and weight room for indoor recreation. There’s an onsite library and a creativity center.
Women and men are assigned to different buildings. Each building boasts a common area, quiet rooms, and laundry and bathroom facilities. Residents are provided bedding & clothing, hygiene supplies and laundry detergent.
Recovery at Fort Lyon combines housing alongside education, job training and employment services. This is a long-term residential care with a stay of up to two years. Residents must remain on campus for the first 30 days to unwind from life on the streets and begin healing from substance use. You’ll work with a case manager to create a personalized recovery plan during this period. Visitors are allowed after this probationary period and an overnight pass is awarded after 90 days. You’ll attend several AA/ NA meetings on/off campus to build support networks and share experiences.
Specialized weekly veterans support groups are available for veterans in recovery. You’re mandated to attend community meetings three times weekly. You may attend DUI education and treatment classes as well. Nearby local colleges offer vocational training in multiple fields. They also offer GED classes to help residents gain essential academic skills and improve their job opportunities.
Your case manager will assist you in obtaining necessary documents like an ID and Social Security card as well as applying for eligible benefits as you navigate recovery. Veterans are also supported in obtaining DD-214, Veterans Health Insurance Card and VA benefits.
One great thing about this program is that residents are actively involved in the running of the house from food service to ground maintenance alongside housekeeping and waste management. Upon graduation, you’ll be supported in obtaining accommodation and employment in your community of choice via partnerships with local and state-wide organizations.
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