Navigating Red Rocks Community College Student Housing Options

Finding suitable housing is a critical aspect of a student's academic journey. For students attending Red Rocks Community College (RRCC) in Denver, Colorado, a variety of housing options exist, each offering different advantages in terms of cost, convenience, and lifestyle. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of available resources and options to assist RRCC students in securing appropriate housing.

Understanding Available Resources

Red Rocks Community College understands the challenges students face and provides resources to support their well-being and academic success.

RRCC Emergency Funding

Students facing economic emergencies can request limited emergency aid through the Help for Financial Emergencies form. Funding is limited and not guaranteed, but all students in need are encouraged to apply. Funds are provided through donations to the RRCC Housing and Food Insecurity Council via the RRCC Foundation. To donate, indicate "Program" in the Designation line.

Community Resources

A range of community resources are available to assist students with various needs:

JeffCo Action Center: Provides immediate and compassionate assistance to those experiencing hardship, offering resources and services to stabilize lives and promote lasting change. Phone: 303-237-7704
Jefferson County Human Services: Offers food assistance, housing, and medical support. Address: 900 Jefferson County Parkway, Phone: 303-271-6511, Toll-free: 888-256-0321
Community Resources: Provides resources and contact information for Jeffco community support across the county.
Colorado Housing Connects: A nonprofit organization providing access to general housing and fair-housing resources for residents of Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson counties. Phone: 1-844-926-6632
PEAK: An online service for Coloradans to screen and apply for medical, food, cash, and early childhood assistance programs.
Early Milestones Colorado: Provides Colorado-specific resources for families.

Mental Health Support

Several organizations offer mental health services:

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All Health Counseling (Arapahoe & Douglas County): Services available over the phone. Phone: 303-730-8858, 24/7 Crisis Intervention: 303-730-3303
Aurora Mental Health: Walk-in crisis services open for mental health emergencies, with most locations offering online and phone appointments. Phone: 303-617-2300
The Blue Bench (Sexual Assault Support): Case management, counseling, and support through medical and legal logistics. 24/7 Hotline: 303-322-7273, 24/7 Spanish Hotline: 303-329-0031
Colorado Crisis Services: 24/7 free hotline, text, and online chat services for crisis help, information, and referrals, free emergency walk-in locations. Phone: 1-844-493-8255 or Text “TALK” to 38255
Community Reach Center (Adams County): Appointments with therapists moved to over the phone. Phone: 303-853-3500
Crisis Text Line: Text a trained Crisis Counselor by texting HELLO to 741741
Denver Health Emergency Mental Health Services: 24/7 onsite/phone evaluations, crisis stabilization and treatment for psychiatric or substance emergencies, information, and referrals. Phone: 303-602-7221
Family Tree: Services to help address issues behind child abuse, domestic violence, and homelessness.
Jefferson Center: Therapy, medication management, and other mental health services. Accepts Medicaid, most insurances, and offers reduced fees for those who qualify based on income. Address: 9485 West Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO, Phone: 303-432-5130 (New Appointments)
Mental Health Center of Denver: All appointments have been moved to phone or video.

Additional Resources

Discounts for Students: MoneyGeek lists a variety of student discounts.
Laboratory to Combat Human Trafficking: Offers trainings, education, and research. 24/7 Hotline: 866-455-5075, Text 'Help' to: 720-999-9724
Guide for Students Experiencing Homelessness: Social Work License Map provides resources, hotlines, online toolkits, and strategies to support the mental health of students experiencing homelessness.

Exploring Housing Options

Students have a range of housing options to consider, each with its own set of advantages and considerations.

Off-Campus Apartments

Many students opt for off-campus apartments, which offer flexibility, independence, and convenient access to both RRCC facilities and the surrounding city. These apartments range from shared student rooms to private apartments, catering to various budgets. Websites like Apartments.com and ApartmentAdvisor.com can assist in finding suitable options.

Housing Authorities and Programs

Several housing authorities and programs can provide assistance:

Arvada Housing Authority: Offers a housing choice voucher program.
BeyondHome: Provides housing and other support resources, including mentorship and employment/self-sufficiency support for single mothers.
Colorado Housing & Finance Authority (CHFA): Offers financial resources for homeownership, affordable housing, and businesses in Colorado.
Colorado Coalition for the Homeless: Provides integrated housing, health care, vocational, and support services, creating lasting solutions to homelessness.
Denver Rescue Mission: A non-profit organization serving the needs of the homeless and needy in the Denver metro area, offering meals, shelter, and daytime services. Address: 6100 Smith Road, Denver CO. 80216, Phone: 303-297-1815
HUD (Housing Urban Development): Provides information on buying a house and rental assistance.
Indy Street Flats: Offers low-income apartments and is part of Metro West Housing Solutions. Address: 1440 Independence Ave, Lakewood CO.
Urban Peak: Provides a shelter for youth aged 15-20 experiencing homelessness, along with a drop-in center offering hot meals, clothing, lockers, laundry, and shower facilities.

Room Rentals

Renting a room in a shared house or apartment can be a more affordable option. Online platforms and local listings often feature rooms for rent in the Denver area. Examples include:

A room for rent in Denver, Colorado, 15 minutes from Denver International Airport.
A furnished room in a 2-bedroom apartment for a male roommate near South Federal and Yale in Denver.
A single room in the Belmar shopping area in downtown Lakewood, CO.
A furnished room in a quiet neighborhood close to public transportation.
A room for female roommates in Highlands Ranch/Lone Tree.
A private bedroom in a single-family home in Meridian Village, Parker.

Considerations for Off-Campus Housing

When considering off-campus housing, it's essential to:

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Check and compare units carefully: Rules, standards, conditions, costs, and physical appearance can vary significantly.
Understand contract requirements: Off-campus housing contracts are between the renters and landlords, and RRCC is not involved in any way.
Consider location and transportation: Look for options close to RRCC and public transportation.
Assess safety and neighborhood: Ensure the area is safe and conducive to studying.
Evaluate costs: Compare rent, utilities, and other expenses to find the best value for your budget.

Red Rock Student Accommodation Developer

Red Rock is a student accommodation developer that focuses on creating living spaces that are stylish, functional, and tailored to the needs of students. Their properties offer modern design, high-quality finishes, and amenities that promote comfort, productivity, and connection.

Tips for Finding the Right Housing

Finding the right housing requires careful planning and consideration:

Start early: Begin your housing search well in advance of the start of the semester.
Determine your budget: Know how much you can afford to spend on rent and related expenses.
Identify your needs and preferences: Consider factors like location, amenities, privacy, and social environment.
Explore all available resources: Utilize RRCC's resources, online listings, and community organizations.
Visit potential housing options: Inspect the property and neighborhood before making a decision.
Read and understand the lease agreement: Pay close attention to the terms and conditions before signing.
Ask questions: Don't hesitate to ask landlords or property managers about any concerns or uncertainties.

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