Washingtoner - City of Tacoma Continues to Make Progress in Comprehensive Strategy to Address Homelessness

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~ Tacoma, Washington - The City of Tacoma is making significant progress in its comprehensive strategy to address homelessness, with a strong focus on community partnerships and expanded services. Through collaborative efforts and data-driven decision-making, the city is increasing shelter capacity, expanding access to vital healthcare, and creating pathways to permanent housing.

In the first quarter of 2025, the City achieved several key milestones in its efforts to combat homelessness. One of these milestones includes the expansion of the Tacoma Rescue Mission Men's Shelter through a partnership between the city, county, state, and federal agencies. This project will greatly increase shelter capacity for men experiencing homelessness.

In addition to expanding shelter options, the City is also addressing critical health needs for those experiencing homelessness. Thanks to a $1 million state grant, a new Street Medicine pilot project has been launched to bring healthcare directly to unsheltered individuals. Furthermore, additional funding from the State Health Care Authority is supporting opioid use treatment programs through June 2026.

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Investing in permanent solutions is also a top priority for Tacoma. The city has allocated $2.24 million towards Permanent Supportive Housing services, which provide stable housing and wraparound support for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness.

During inclement weather conditions, the City's robust response provided shelter and aid for 42 days in the first quarter of 2025. This included a 40-day stretch during particularly poor weather conditions.

Thanks to partnerships and funding from the City, over 1,000 beds are now available for those experiencing homelessness. The City is actively working to ensure that individuals transitioning from temporary shelters receive comprehensive case management and are connected to alternative shelter or permanent housing options.

The Forging Path Community shelter will continue operations as it begins its transition into an 81-unit affordable housing development operated by Mercy Housing Northwest. This transition is supported by the City's Tacoma Community Redevelopment Authority.

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Data plays a crucial role in guiding the City's efforts to address homelessness. In February 2025, the Homeless Management Information System tracked 1,013 individuals utilizing Tacoma's shelter system. Additionally, the City's Homeless Engagement Alternatives Liaison (HEAL) team made 2,856 contacts in 2024 and successfully placed 276 individuals into shelter. The HEAL team also maintains and utilizes a by-name list and is currently supporting 439 individuals experiencing homelessness.

The City remains committed to addressing homelessness with compassion and a focus on long-term solutions. Future efforts will prioritize streamlining service access, strengthening coordination with partners, and engaging with the community to maximize the impact of its investments.

A recording of today's City Council Study Session presentation, which provides further details on these efforts, is available on the City of Tacoma's Facebook page at facebook.com/cityoftacoma.

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