Denver Family Are Three Peas in a Pod in New Modular Domes at Samaritan House 48th
Kathy and her twin daughters, Debbie and Kathleen, are three peas in a pod. They’re inseparable and committed to spending a lot of time together, despite the challenges of experiencing homelessness in Denver for several years. Denver natives, their goal has always been to support and lean on each other, despite the struggles they’ve faced together.
Today, the three of them are enjoying their new domes. Over the past year, Catholic Charities and the City of Denver have worked together to enhance the facilities at Samaritan House 48th by adding semi-private units, we call domes to the building. The private modular sleeping areas give residents their own space and some privacy. Kathy and her daughters have taken up residence in three adjacent domes in the “Lily” neighborhood.
In total, 187 domes have been added to the congregate shelter that is home to more than 300 women. Building out of domes continues through the shelter, which is on track to have closer to 4000 total domes by the end of 2024. Kathy and her girls have faced their share of tragedy. She gave birth to six wonderful children but has grieved the deaths of three sons. As anyone who has lost a family member knows, that shared experience can make remaining family members grow very close. That’s the situation with Kathy, Debbie and Kathleen, who have worked hard to stay together every step of the way.
As they settled into their new living space, complete with cherished Broncos and Nuggets blankets, the family has a deep sense of relief and gratitude. They now have a more private place to call their own as they continue their search for stable, permanent housing. The domes can be a place where they can continue to support each other through thick and thin. The chance to be together and have a roof over their heads at Samaritan House is a blessing they’ve never taken for granted.
“We are so glad to stay together. My girls take care of me, and make sure I am looked after,” Kathy shared, with tears in her eyes. “I am grateful that we stick together.”
For Kathy and her daughters, this new chapter at the Lily neighborhood represents a fresh start. They know there will still be challenges ahead, but together, they are ready to face whatever comes their way. These three in their new domes are grateful for the chance to be together and for the hope that this new beginning is the start of a happy new chapter in their lives.