Mesa’s La Mesita Shelter Closes Amidst Federal Funding Challenges
As the number of unsheltered individuals in the Valley continues to rise, A New Leaf has shuttered its Mesa emergency shelter for homeless families due to financial uncertainties. The La Mesita facility, which had served as a refuge for homeless families for many years, faced an unexpected budget shortfall.
La Mesita was unique in the Valley for its apartment-style accommodations that allowed families to stay together for up to 120 days. Unfortunately, a budget gap of approximately $500,000 forced the organization to close the shelter, according to Tanner Swanson, a spokesperson for A New Leaf.
“We’re facing unprecedented crises around federal funding and so we’ve had to make some really tough decisions,” Swanson explained. Federal assistance accounts for about 70% of the organization’s funding, highlighting the impact of dwindling resources.
During recent years, organizations aiding the homeless received significant support from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). However, these funds are now nearly exhausted, with any remaining assistance set to expire by 2026. A New Leaf also anticipates additional financial strain due to potential cuts to the Department of Housing and Urban Development by the Trump administration.
“We’re dealing with delays in payments on federal contracts because of staff reductions, and people being uncertain about where funding is allowed to go based on directives from the federal government, so it’s a huge combination of factors,” Swanson noted. Additionally, inflation has further increased operational costs.
Although the La Mesita shelter is closed, A New Leaf continues to operate its men’s and domestic violence shelters. The 16 units in La Mesita will now be repurposed as rental apartments within the same affordable housing complex managed by the organization.
Swanson assured that alternative housing solutions have been arranged for the families previously residing in La Mesita. A New Leaf is among several Valley nonprofits grappling with budgetary challenges due to federal funding cuts. The Maricopa Association of Governments reports that nearly 1,000 shelter beds were lost across the Valley in 2024, while the rate of people becoming homeless continues to outpace housing placements according to MAG.
“We’re at a time in our community that donating, volunteering, getting involved is more important than it’s ever been,” Swanson emphasized, urging community support in these challenging times.
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