In a town where million-dollar homes and luxury resorts dominate the landscape, Catholic Charities Housing is making space for something different—something deeply needed. The Benedict Apartments, now rising in the heart of Glenwood Springs, is offering affordable, thoughtfully designed homes for low-income seniors. Nestled among rivers and peaks, this 34-unit community is a rare chance for older adults to age in place with dignity, surrounded by beauty and belonging.
Last Thursday, more than 75 people gathered for a grand opening celebration, including community leaders, supporters, and future residents.
The Benedict is more than a building—it’s a symbol of compassion in action. Each unit is tailored to senior living, with shared spaces to foster connection and design features that support comfort and sustainability. For those who’ve given much to their communities, this is a chance to stay rooted without being priced out.
Across Colorado, the number of older adults facing housing instability is on the rise. In 2024, more than 52,000 people in the state sought housing or homelessness services, one in five was over the age of 55. That’s more than 10,500 older adults who were struggling to keep a roof over their heads. One in three Coloradans aged 65 and older is severely burdened by rent, putting them at high risk of being displaced. From 2020 to 2024, the state’s overall homeless population surged by 90 percent, one of the steepest increases in the nation.
For the residents of the Roaring Fork Valley, The Benedict is a long time coming. The need for senior housing has been increasing steadily for decades, especially as Glenwood Springs has become a hot tourist destination.
Catholic Charities Housing provides secure, supportive and affordable homes for several thousand individuals and families who cannot access appropriate housing at a price they can afford. We own and manage 1,629 units of affordable housing in 31 locations throughout Colorado and continue to develop new communities. Our residents include seniors, families, people with disabilities and individuals who have experienced homelessness. Each receives access to additional support services designed to encourage long-term and sustainable housing security.
On the list of incoming tenants are Elaine and Monty, Glenwood Springs residents of over 20 years. Recently, they were given an eviction notice from their home nearby.
When they got the notice, they called Catholic Charities serving the Western Slope, our ministry that helps with community integration services, emergency assistance, immigration services and homeless prevention programs. They were connected with case manager, Kathy Fitzgerald, who told them about Catholic Charities Housing’s newest building and got them on the list.
They attended the grand opening alongside Kathy and
were finally able to tour their future home.
“We can’t wait,” said Monty. “We’ve been calling since we heard about this building. It’s going to be so great for us to not worry about land lords who don’t care. The timing of it just really worked out for us.”
This why The Benedict Apartments matter. Each unit is designed specifically for senior living with features that support comfort and independence, and a peace of mind. Shared spaces encourage connection at a time of life when isolation can be common, and the location keeps residents close to local services, nature, friends and family. By providing affordable homes, The Benedict helps prevent homelessness before it starts and gives seniors the chance to stay rooted in the community they love.