As the City of Loveland faces crisis over funding for homelessness initiatives, Catholic Charities’ St. Valentine Permanent Supportive Housing now stands as the primary place in the city offering long-term housing and support for people experiencing homelessness.
In recent weeks, challenges have risen after the city’s temporary shelter permit expired, leaving dozens without a place to go. When cold rain hit, Loveland Mayor Jacki Marsh made headlines for allowing several unhoused residents to take shelter overnight inside City Hall. Her action underscored a growing crisis: where can people go when the city no longer funds shelter or housing programs?
The answer, for many, is St. Valentine.
Opened through a partnership between Catholic Charities and the Loveland Housing Authority, St. Valentine provides 54 units of permanent supportive housing—home to 60 of Loveland’s most vulnerable residents, many of whom have experienced years or even decades without stable housing.
“This is absolutely critical for Loveland,” said Tim Pierz, Director of Programs and Homelessness Prevention at Catholic Charities. “As city funding for homelessness services has shifted, St. Valentine has become the primary source of support for people experiencing homelessness in Loveland
What makes St. Valentine unique is the integration of housing and supportive services. Each resident is paired with case managers, clinicians and peer navigators who walk with them through the complex transition from homelessness to stability. The building is intentionally designed to help residents build not only housing security but community.
“We really leaned into our mission when this St. Valentine model first came to fruition and we bridged the world of shelter and housing,” shared Marisol Velez, Director of Regional Shelter Services at Catholic Charities. “We created policies and best practices together—one hand learning from the other. That collaboration has been key to helping residents not just move in but belong.”
Community-building is a central focus. Residents are empowered through a Resident Council, where they meet weekly to make decisions, solve challenges and shape life at St. Valentine. There are also music and art therapy groups, community meals and plans for a resident garden—all designed to foster dignity and connection.
“We’re helping people who have spent years being told ‘no,’” Pierz said. “Now, they’re learning to say ‘yes’ to themselves—to community, to healing and to hope.”
St. Valentine serves families and individuals including those living with mental health challenges, disabilities and chronic illnesses. A full-time clinician provides on-site therapy and crisis support while case managers help residents work toward independence—whether that means transitioning into market-rate housing or for some, moving into higher levels of care.
Recently one resident, Crystal, made that step forward—successfully moving into assisted living after years of instability. “That’s the goal,” Tim said. “To give people the bridge they need to move forward.”
As Loveland works to address homelessness in the Northern Colorado community, St. Valentine remains steadfast—an embodiment of Catholic Charities’ mission to extend mercy and promote human dignity for all.