Concerns rise around proposed funding cuts for WA homeless services

Concerns are escalating in Washington regarding proposed funding cuts that threaten vital homeless services, particularly impacting the Encampment Resolution Program. This program has been crucial in relocating individuals from encampments near highways to secure housing. While the state Department of Commerce is not facing severe budget reductions, the persistent issue of inflation is diminishing the real value of existing funds. Tedd Kelleher from the department acknowledged that administrative cuts could limit the effectiveness of smaller programs that cater to high-need individuals. In Spokane, city officials noted the program's success in clearing four encampments and connecting over 100 individuals with services, but they worry that funding cuts could hinder future efforts.

Dawn Kinder, a local director, emphasized that funding is critical at multiple levels of service, and any reduction could create significant backlogs. The Seattle/King County Coalition on Homelessness is calling for new revenue to expand support programs, arguing that maintaining current funding is inadequate given inflationary pressures. The situation underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness in the state.