Could Butte’s Homeless Shelters Be at Risk of Closing?

BUTTE, MT - A recent move has sent shivers down the spines of residents across the state.

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As colder months approach, the closure of the Flathead Warming Center in Kalispell has raised concerns across Montana about the ability of shelters and if they can truly help with the state’s homeless population.

This alarming situation in Kalispell, where the closure of a vital winter shelter could leave many out in the cold, has some in Butte wondering: could our local shelters face a similar fate?

The Impact of Kalispell's Shelter Closure

On September 16, the Kalispell City Council revoked the permit for the Flathead Warming Center, which had provided essential overnight shelter during the harsh Montana winters.

The center housed 50 people from October to April each year, and its closure has left many homeless individuals with nowhere to go. Kalispell residents voiced concerns about increased crime, drug use, and the overall impact on the neighborhood, which ultimately led to the shelter's shutdown.

Despite these complaints, local leaders and service providers argue that the closure will likely worsen the homeless situation in Kalispell. In fact, residents in the area have even expressed grave concerns and expectations that some people may even die from lack of the vital resources.

What About Butte?

Butte's own homeless shelter, the Butte Rescue Mission, faces similar challenges, with increasing demand and limited resources—though a recent $200,000 donation has nullified fears of closure.

The good news is that the 56-bed emergency shelter is frequently at full capacity, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Funded largely by donations, it provides critical shelter for the homeless, with more than 75% of those served being local Butte residents.

Brayton Erickson, the executive director of the Butte Rescue Mission, expressed concern about misconceptions surrounding homelessness in Montana. He echoed the sentiments of other shelter providers, noting that most homeless individuals have strong ties to the area they reside in and are unlikely to move elsewhere simply because a shelter closes.

The Consequences of Closing Shelters

If Butte were to face the closure of its shelter, the effects could be devastating. Homeless individuals would be left to fend for themselves in the cold, which could lead to increased crime as people become desperate for warmth and safety.

Shelter closures also put immense strain on surrounding cities and shelters. With the Flathead Warming Center shut down, neighboring cities like Missoula and Butte may be asked to absorb the overflow, even though their shelters are often at full capacity.

Missoula’s Poverello Center, for instance, has faced similar situations in the past, with several homeless individuals tragically dying during cold snaps when the center reached capacity.

Are Butte's Shelters at Risk?

At this time, there is no immediate indication that Butte's homeless shelters are at risk of closing.

However, the challenges faced by shelters in Kalispell and other Montana cities serve as a stern reminder of the importance of continued support for these facilities. The Butte Rescue Mission continues to rely on community donations to keep its doors open and provide essential services to those in need.

The Importance of Supporting Butte’s Shelters

The situation in Kalispell highlights the precarious situation many of Montana’s homeless shelters are in, along with the crucial role they play in keeping people safe during the unforgiving winter months. While Butte’s shelters are not currently facing closure, the challenges they face are very real.