What is a
low-barrier shelter
A low-barrier shelter provides a warm, friendly environment with very few requirements in order to extend safety, dignity and other benefits of shelter to as many individuals as possible.
OTS will open its doors and hearts to those that need it, whether it be one single person, a partnership, or a family. We will welcome those struggling with physical disabilities, mental health, or addiction, with virtually no strings attached. We will lay a path to supporting resources in our Billings community for programs that may be of benefit, but those programs will not be a requirement.
Why a low-barrier shelter is important
We've all driven through Billings and have witnessed people on the streets that have no place to call home. The chronically homeless often stay on the streets, access emergency shelters, sleep in abandoned cars, buildings, storefronts, outdoor camps, or with friends or relatives. The reality is a critically low inventory of affordable housing compounded by the stigmas surrounding mental illness, addictions, physical disabilities and trauma.
The most vulnerable of the homeless population are often excluded from existing housing because they do not fit the criteria for entry.
our low-barrier shelter goals
OTS plans to use a fresh, 'housing first' approach that has been proven successful in other communities. Our goal is to take the homeless off the streets by providing a shelter that will welcome all.
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Transitional housing and overnight sheltering for 250 people
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150 low-income, dormitory-style housing units
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Emergency overnight sheltering for up to 100 people
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Affordable rents, giving tenants the pride and self-satisfaction of paying rent with money they've earned
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Access to community service providers who will engage clients and move them forward
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Residents with a sense of belonging in a community lifestyle
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Transportation to include Mobile Outreach
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Meals that fill the gaps when the homeless are most hungry