New grants will increase shelter capacity and fund the storage of belongings for those experiencing homelessness
Seattle, WA (December 15, 2016) – This week, the City of Seattle’s Human Services Department (HSD) released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for over $1.3M to fund increased shelter access for those experiencing homelessness and storage for their belongings. Approximately $1.1M will be devoted to adding 100 new, low barrier shelter options. In addition, $200,000 will be devoted to increasing storage opportunities for safekeeping the belongings of those currently living unsheltered.
This week’s announcement of funding is part of the Bridging the Gap plan, announced in October, a set of interim steps the City will take to assist those experience homelessness while the City implements Pathways Home. Pathways Home is Seattle’s plan to transform our homeless services system by focusing our investments on the goal of getting people into stable housing.
“We must continue to creatively expand shelter options that address the unique needs of each individual living unsheltered,” said Human Services Department Director Catherine Lester. “Expanding low-barrier shelter and ensuring that people have access to safe storage for their belongings are immediate steps we can take to improve the lives of those experiencing homelessness.”
The 100 new shelter beds will be dedicated to individuals referred from city-funded outreach teams, which are conducting outreach to those living unsheltered and working to connect them with resources. Eligible shelter costs could be staff and operating costs, expansion of existing shelter to add beds or capital/facility repair and improvements.
This is one time funding for the period of March 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017, though projects will be eligible to apply for ongoing funding through HSD’s Pathways Home RFP for 2018 contracts. The $1.3M for Bridging the Gap Shelter and Storage is funded by City of Seattle General Fund.
The City of Seattle will also send out a Letter of Interest (LOI) to the business, corporate, faith, and nonprofit communities to call for innovative solutions for our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness. This LOI is asking for donated or rate-reduced space and resources. Responses from the LOI will provide additional resources for the services proposed in the Bridging the Gap Shelter and Storage RFP. Learn more about the LOI on the Human Services Department’s Bridging the Gap Shelter and Storage RFP page.
The application deadline for proposals is Friday, January 20, 2017 at 12:00pm (noon). Those with questions are encouraged to attend an information session Wednesday, December 21, 2016 from 9:00am to 11:00am:
The 2100 Building
2100 24th Ave. S
Seattle, WA 98144
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The Seattle Human Services Department is one of the largest contributors to Seattle’s safety net. HSD provides $89 million in funding through 400 contracts to nearly 200 agencies supporting Seattle’s most vulnerable residents each year. The department works closely with its community partners, including other public and nonprofit funders and service providers, to understand current and emerging human service needs, and to create and invest in a comprehensive and integrated regional human services system.
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