Spokane: New Partnership Reserves Shelter Beds for First Responders to Support Unhoused Residents
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~ Spokane, WA - In a new effort to address homelessness in the city, the City of Spokane has partnered with Catholic Charities Eastern Washington to reserve emergency shelter beds for first responders to transport unhoused individuals who are willing to accept placement. This initiative, announced by Communications Director Erin Hut, aims to provide first responders with a critical new tool to connect people in need with immediate shelter and supportive services.

Under this partnership, three reserved beds will be available at the House of Charity for intake between the hours of 9 p.m. and midnight. These beds are specifically designated for use by police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel when encountering unhoused men who are ready to accept help.

This new initiative is part of the City of Spokane's broader strategy to approach homelessness through coordinated outreach and stabilization efforts. Mayor Lisa Brown expressed her support for the partnership, stating that "partnership is what drives results" and that this effort is a clear example of that. She believes that by working together with Catholic Charities, first responders will have a new tool to connect people with the support they need.

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Catholic Charities Eastern Washington CEO and President Rob McCann also shared his excitement about the partnership, stating that they are "thrilled" to set aside beds in their successful House of Charity facility. He emphasized their commitment to being a solution within the continuum of care for vulnerable community members.

Spokane Fire Chief Julie O'Berg also spoke about the benefits of this partnership, stating that it gives first responders a reliable and immediate option when encountering individuals in need. She believes it is a powerful tool that supports both compassionate care and public safety.

Assistant Chief Steve Wohl from the Spokane Police Department echoed these sentiments, emphasizing their goal of connecting those in need with wrap-around services to help stabilize them. He believes these first responder beds provide a location to start that process and work towards a solution that benefits not only the individual but the whole community.

This new partnership between the City of Spokane and Catholic Charities Eastern Washington is a promising step towards addressing homelessness in the city. With reserved beds specifically for first responders to transport unhoused individuals, it provides a critical resource to connect those in need with immediate shelter and supportive services.

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