DENVER — Migrants in Denver have found a new space to establish an encampment with the help of advocates. At least three of the migrants staying there were previously at the encampment off Speer Boulevard and Zuni Street before it was swept by the city last week.
Advocates began looking for a new location when the sweep occurred, so they could begin redirecting people. One woman, Amy Beck, identified a space in North Denver off of Emerson Street.
Beck provides cold weather gear to migrants upon arrival. They receive items like hand warmers, hot water, camping stoves, snow pants, jackets and other necessities.
"We have taught them how to survive out here," Beck said. "We have given them all of the gear that they need just to get going here. So, if their feet are cold, put on some foot warmers. There is boxes and boxes of them in the tent right now."
If needed, they can provide equipment and necessities for hundreds of people.
"For the moment, it’s something that can help us without a roof to sleep under to rest," said Jordan, a migrant who was previously at the Zuni encampment.
Jordan first came to Denver before going to Washington state. He decided to come back. When he did, he was directed to the new encampment.
"It’s my first night here, and I don’t know how many nights there will be. But here we are," Jordan said.
The encampment has been established for about one week. Beck is not soliciting donations or other items, hoping to keep the space calmer than what occurred at the previous encampment.
"More calm, more comfortable," Jordan said.
The site was also chosen to be close to the Colosseum, which opens as a warming shelter when severe weather activations take place.
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