Tacoma: City Prepares to Expand Winter Weather Shelter Capacity
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~ Tacoma, Washington - As the winter season approaches, the City of Tacoma is taking steps to expand its winter weather shelter capacity in order to provide crucial support and resources for individuals experiencing homelessness. The shelter, located at 813 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, will be open from November 15, 2024 to March 31, 2025 and will offer overnight shelter as well as daytime resources for up to 53 adults.

According to Maria Lee, the Media and Communications representative for the city, the shelter will not only provide a safe place to sleep but also offer connections to employment opportunities, substance use disorder services, and mental health counseling. Additionally, two meals per day will be provided for shelter guests.

The City is working closely with other shelter locations that are at capacity and with their Homeless Engagement and Alternatives Liaison (HEAL) team to ensure that referrals are accepted from those in need. Outreach teams operating throughout Tacoma will also be able to refer individuals to the winter weather shelter.

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In addition to the seasonal shelter, the City has also contracted with providers for additional capacity during extreme weather conditions. When overnight temperatures are forecasted to reach 35 degrees with wind or rain or when temperatures are expected to drop below freezing regardless of other weather conditions, additional shelters will be opened.

Catholic Community Services' Nativity House will provide an additional 20 beds for adults over the age of 18 while Beacon Young Adult Shelter will offer an extra 20 beds specifically for young adults aged 18-24. The Saint Vincent de Paul Community Resource Center will also have up to 20 hotel vouchers available for those in need of temporary housing.

Overall, the City is expanding its winter weather shelter capacity by a total of 113 beds this season in order to accommodate more individuals during severe inclement weather events.

To inform community members about these operations and resources available at the shelters, a community discussion hosted by the Neighborhood and Community Services Department will be held on November 14 at the Tacoma Municipal Building. The discussion will take place from 6-7 PM in Room 243 and all are welcome to attend.

For more information about the City's inclement weather shelter and resources, please visit their website. As the City of Tacoma takes steps to support those experiencing homelessness during the winter season, they encourage community members to get involved and help make a difference in the lives of those in need.

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