For Immediate Release: July 25, 2025 

Kansas City is one step closer to opening a low-barrier shelter designed to serve individuals and families experiencing homelessness. 
The City Council approved Ordinance 250582, authorizing a $7.1 million investment with Care Beyond the Boulevard to support the development of a low barrier shelter in the city.

“This is the kind of forward-thinking, compassionate investment our city desperately needs,” said lead sponsor, Third District At Large Council Member, Melissa Patterson Hazley. “This project is about dignity, health, and stability for people who have been left behind for far too long.” 

Care Beyond the Boulevard was selected through a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process. The local non-profit organization operates the "Big Green Bus", a mobile unit that delivers healthcare services directly to people living unhoused.

The City’s Housing and Community Development Department (HCDD) recommended using $7.1 million in HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME-ARP) funds to support the shelter. These funds were approved by City Council in 2022 but had not yet been allocated due to the lack of a qualified project. 

“This project supports our ZERO KC initiative, which identified the need for a low-barrier shelter in our community,” said HCDD Director Blaine Proctor. “By investing in this project, we can give local non-profits the resources and training they need to continue their critical work.” 

The new low barrier shelter will provide:

•   24/7 non-congregate shelter with medical respite services
•    On-site case management and supportive housing services
•    Rehabilitation of existing space to meet shelter and service needs
•    Job training and employment pathways for individuals experiencing homelessness
•    Capacity-building resources to support long-term program sustainability

The ordinance also directs the City Manager to develop a plan for the enhancement and maintenance of the neighborhood within 1,000 feet of the shelter. The shelter remains subject to final approval by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). 

Media with questions may contact Sherae Honeycutt, Press Secretary of Kansas City, at Sherae.Honeycutt@kcmo.org.