The Denver SNAP partnership began in 1994 with the Assisted Housing Managers Association, Denver's Community Development Agency, and HUD's Office of Multifamily Housing. This original team grew to a very large community coalition, which is constantly changing and evolving. The SNAP Action Plan, which is used as a plan of action for implementing the SNAP program, is guided by an Executive Committee, which includes the three original partners. The goal is accomplished by encouraging and facilitating communications and cooperative efforts among residents, government officials, law enforcement agencies, and by developing a comprehensive strategy which can be used in the future by other owners and managers of assisted housing units. Results Security improvements at SNAP properties have decreased drug activity at the targeted properties.
Tenants now communicate and have a forum for issues.
The Weed and Seed Summer Youth Explorers Program, East Village Falcons Little League Team and the Resident Literacy Team Initiative have been organized so that fewer youth are idle or on the street. Additionally, there are increased social and support programs for the elderly. Residents inform neighborhood police officers about possible drug dealers on the target properties, and the City receives updated property crime reports from neighborhood police officers. Monthly SNAP community meetings are held to hear reports on properties and give the community a place to voice concerns and successes. A Community Center at East Village is used for an after school program, summer literacy project, clothes closet, resident council meeting place, baseball team's storage, and a safe haven for the residents.