Fort Collins Will Open New Family Shelter in 2026
A new facility will provide private suites for local families experiencing housing instability.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Child Care
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The Family Housing Network plans to open the Myrtle House shelter at 811 Myrtle Street by fall 2026. This new facility will replace the current system of rotating families between local churches with a dedicated site featuring eight private living suites.
Why it matters
The transition to a stable facility aims to improve the dignity and consistency of care for families in need. By providing dedicated kitchens and private spaces, the organization seeks to build on its track record of helping families secure permanent housing.
The Family Housing Network reported a 94% success rate in maintaining permanent housing for families 13 months after exiting their program. This figure informs the organizational approach for the new facility, which remains in the fundraising stage for its $2.2 million budget.
The players
Family Housing Network
A community organization that provides transitional housing and support services to help families achieve permanent stability.
The details
The Myrtle House facility features eight private suites designed to provide a stable environment for families staying three to four months. Unlike the current model of rotating through various church locations, this site includes a community kitchen and backyard to support daily life. Staff at the facility will provide targeted assistance, including budget and resume training, to help families transition into permanent housing.
Timeline
September 2025: The organization turned away 24 families due to capacity constraints.
November 2025: 30 additional families were turned away from services.
Fall 2026: The Myrtle House shelter is scheduled to open.
Thanksgiving 2026: Residents are expected to move into the new facility.
Health Landscape
This development marks a shift toward centralized infrastructure for local transitional care. It directly scales the capacity for the Family Housing Network's proven 94% housing retention success rate.
Stable housing is a foundational social determinant of health that significantly impacts long-term wellness and access to care for children and families. Residents concerned about local resources or housing stability can discuss available support programs with a community health worker or social services provider.
The takeaway
Providing families with private, stable living environments is a key factor in successful long-term housing retention. Individuals or families in need of assistance are encouraged to reach out to local social service agencies to learn about current support options before the new facility opens.
Further reading
Learn more about local support services in the Child Care section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KUNC.
Live Poll
Should local shelters prioritize private living spaces to improve dignity for unhoused families in your community?
