Notes from the

Executive Director

We are excited to highlight some of the successes and challenges in the different communities in which CSPI works. This newsletter we will focus on Adams County.

In Spring 2022, Adams County invited CSPI to develop three SafeLots to serve residents in north Metro Denver. Funding was provided through the American Rescue Plan Act, and CSPI commenced work, with the target to open one SafeLot each year through December 2024. 

As of October 2023, two lots have been established in Commerce City – one at a church and one through a partnership with the nonprofit real estate steward Urban

Land Conservancy. The ULC SafeLot is run with the help of a paid Lot Operator, a guest who is staying at the lot. That guest, Mike, is now a CSPI employee and in addition to receiving SafeLot services, has the opportunity to earn additional income. You can meet Mike here. Between these two SafeLots, 13 households can be accommodated, including school-age children in families. Read More

Program Update

With 2023 wrapping up, CSPI is pleased to now have 13 SafeLots operating across 5 Denver metro counties, with an ability to accommodate 110 households per night. While CSPI’s focus in 2023 remains ensuring sustainability of our ongoing work, we know the need is still growing and we remain committed to helping communities meet that need. CSPI SafeLots are expanding through partnerships with commercial lot owners such as Urban Land Conservancy mentioned above and partnering with other nonprofit service providers. CSPI is fostering the replication of SafeLot programs throughout the state, helping communities beyond the Metro Denver area start safe parking programs of their own.



If you need a safe place to park overnight, please complete the request form at: https://www.colosafeparking.org/request-a-parking-permit

Guest Spotlight: Patty & Mike

Patty and Mike, married 17 years and living in a vehicle on and off for the past 3 of those, have one of the many heart-wrenching stories of how people in their later years may wind up unhoused. Mike’s disability and their need to live together with their pet cat, made staying at traditional shelters impossible. Yet living in their car was getting to be more untenable as the months went on. Although eventually housed, one must read the full story here to learn about the realities of managing life from a SafeLot. 

Call for Board Members

Four community volunteers made up CSPI’s first Board of Directors and established our mission and programs. Three years later, CSPI has added two additional new members (meet our board members here), and we are actively recruiting a pool of qualified community members who share our passions.

CSPI is looking for new members with a range of perspectives, skills, and professional/life experience. We prioritize board applicants who have lived experience of houselessness, housing instability, other significant life challenges either directly or with close family and those who identify with historically marginalized communities.

Are you interested in helping shape CSPI’s future? We want to talk to you! Email Terrell Curtis to learn more and let us get to know you.

In the News

You may have seen the New York Times article that reveals the extent of the crisis in cities across the country where more and more people are forced out of their homes and into living in their cars. This is often one step before having to give up their car - and dreams of being rehoused – and living on the street unless they can access the right support like that which is offered by CSPI offers. If you haven’t had the chance, read it in detail here.

Current Needs



With colder weather coming, the need increases for certain items to help folks stay warm while taking shelter in vehicles and even motel vouchers for inclement weather. Donate now to CSPI and funds will be used for the most urgent needs. Or check the Wishlist below to purchase items and help meet guest current requests. Your continued support is always greatly appreciated.

Fall/Winter Needs (Order through CSPI's Amazon Wish List here.)

• Sleeping Bags
• Space Blankets
• In-Car Heaters

Gift Cards from:

• Gas Stations
• King Soopers
• Grease Monkey
• Big O Tires

Purchase cards then mail to:

CSPI

c/o Barton Institute

1114 W 7th Avenue, Suite 215

Denver, CO 80204