City Council Receives Update on City of Tacoma’s Ongoing Efforts to Address Homelessness
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~ Tacoma City Council Receives Update on Ongoing Efforts to Address Homelessness

In a recent meeting, the Tacoma City Council was presented with an update on the city's ongoing efforts to address homelessness. The presentation highlighted the city's multi-faceted approach, which aims to not only provide immediate relief but also work towards long-term solutions.

The City of Tacoma has been proactive and compassionate in its approach to addressing homelessness. By aligning with state and regional strategies and utilizing data to inform decision-making, the city is taking significant steps towards a future where homelessness is rare, brief, and one-time.

One of the key focuses of the city's efforts is protecting vulnerable individuals during harsh winter weather conditions. To address this, the City of Tacoma has increased its inclement weather shelter capacity. This includes seasonal shelters operated by Valeo Vocations, providing 53 beds through March 31. In addition, when temperatures drop, inclement weather beds are available at Catholic Community Services Nativity House and Beacon Young Adult Shelter. The city has also secured an additional 20 motel units for families in need. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals and families have access to refuge during challenging weather conditions.

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The City of Tacoma's five-year Homelessness Strategy aligns with Washington state's Homeless Housing Strategic Plan. Both strategies prioritize prevention, creation of affordable housing, and enhancement of the homeless response system. They also recognize the disproportionate impact of homelessness on marginalized communities such as BIPOC and LGBTQ2S+ individuals. This alignment allows for a coordinated effort at both local and state levels, maximizing resources and impact.

However, despite these efforts, the City of Tacoma faces a difficult decision in June 2025 when temporary and emergency shelters will have to close due to the expiration of federal funding. To address this challenge, the city is actively seeking additional state funding for housing and homelessness initiatives. So far, $3 million has been secured to support shelter operations through June 2025, and the city is continuing to work on securing funding for operations beyond that point. Even with additional funds, some locations, such as Shiloh Baptist and Altheimer, will have to transition in 2025. The city is working closely with service providers to ensure a smooth transition for residents, with a focus on finding permanent housing solutions. This demonstrates the city's commitment to long-term stability for individuals experiencing homelessness.

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To track progress and inform service adjustments, the City of Tacoma utilizes various data sources, including Pierce County's Point-in-Time count and Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). The city has also developed a By-Name List to better understand the homeless population in Tacoma. While acknowledging the limitations of each method, the city is actively working to improve data collection and analysis. This commitment to data-driven decision-making ensures that resources are allocated effectively and strategies are continuously refined to better meet the needs of those experiencing homelessness.

The City of Tacoma also recognizes the importance of promoting equity in its homeless response system. By actively tracking demographic data and collaborating with diverse stakeholders, the city aims to develop culturally responsive solutions. While challenges remain, the City remains committed to continuous improvement and equitable solutions.

More information on the City of Tacoma's ongoing efforts to address homelessness can be found on their website. As they continue their work towards a future where homelessness is rare, brief, and one-time, it is clear that the City of Tacoma is dedicated to making a positive impact in their community.

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