Jackson, Wyoming is actively addressing homelessness in 2025 through a multi-pronged approach that combines affordable housing initiatives, emergency shelter support, community outreach, and policy-driven collaboration. The city and its partners recognize the unique challenges posed by economic disparities and a limited housing supply in this scenic but costly region.
Affordable Housing Development
A cornerstone of Jackson’s strategy is expanding affordable and workforce housing to provide stable living options for low- and middle-income residents. The Community Foundation of Jackson Hole leads the Housing Solutions Initiative, which fosters collaboration among nonprofits, public agencies, and private developers.
Projects like Parkside at Benson and Brown Station townhomes, Jackson Street Apartments, and Flat Creek Apartments aim to create hundreds of deed-restricted homes for families earning less than 120% of the area’s median income. These developments blend rental and ownership opportunities and seek to ease the housing squeeze that contributes significantly to homelessness in Teton County.
Emergency Shelter and Support Services
For those currently experiencing homelessness, the Good Samaritan Mission provides critical emergency shelter and services. The mission offers two-week emergency stays with meals, employment assistance, and case management aimed at guiding clients toward self-sufficiency.
Extended shelter programs with caseworker support and a client relocation initiative help individuals transition out of homelessness.
The mission operates with a “working” shelter model requiring employment or program participation, reflecting community values but also posing challenges to certain chronically homeless individuals. Nonetheless, it remains the primary facility addressing immediate shelter needs in Jackson.
Outreach and Community Collaboration
Jackson’s approach includes concerted outreach efforts coordinated between the police department, social services, and nonprofit organizations. The city convenes monthly task force meetings to share data, resources, and strategies targeting the homeless population, especially those with mental illness or substance abuse issues.
Education and advocacy work aim to reduce stigma and promote compassion for unhoused residents. Through these collaborations, Jackson seeks to tailor its services to the diverse needs within its homeless community and to prevent seasonal surges in homelessness during warmer months.
Addressing Root Causes and Policy Measures
Underlying homelessness is the profound shortage of affordable housing and disparities in local income levels, factors Jackson continues to tackle through public policy and long-term planning.
The 2025 Housing Supply Plan approved by the Town Council emphasizes partnerships for sustainable housing creation and preservation. Public funding, philanthropic contributions, and private sector participation are pivotal to financing and implementing these strategies.
The city acknowledges that while housing is essential, addressing behavioral health challenges and providing access to supportive services are equally critical components for lasting solutions.
Jackson’s fight against homelessness in 2025 reflects a commitment to compassion, collaboration, and innovation. Expanding affordable housing, enhancing emergency shelters, coordinating outreach, and tackling systemic issues form a comprehensive blueprint designed to make sustainable progress. Despite substantial challenges, the community’s integrated efforts offer hope for reducing homelessness and fostering a more inclusive, stable environment for all residents.
Sources
(https://www.cfjacksonhole.org/housing-solutions-initiative)
(https://www.tetoncountywy.gov/DocumentCenter/View/28708/FY-2025-Work-Plan-FINAL?bidId=)
(https://gsmjh.org)
(https://buckrail.com/homeless-on-the-range-the-unique-dynamic-of-jacksons-displaced/)
(https://wyomingtruth.org/women-you-should-know-in-wyoming-combatting-the-homeless-crisis-with-compassion/)
