Tacoma Faces Closure of Over 350 Homeless Shelter Beds by 2025 Due to Funding Deficit

The City of Tacoma is preparing for a substantial reduction in homeless shelter availability, with over 350 beds expected to close by June 2025 due to a projected $12 million funding gap at the end of 2024. This loss represents about 40% of the city's total shelter capacity, which is crucial as Tacoma provides approximately 80% of Pierce County's shelter beds. Key locations affected include Bethlehem Baptist Church, Altheimer Memorial Church, and the Tacoma Emergency Micro-Shelter Site. City officials, particularly homeless strategy manager Caleb Carbone, have conveyed the urgency of the situation to the City Council, emphasizing the need for state financial assistance as the next legislative session approaches. While $3 million has been identified to support shelter operations through the first half of 2025, a total of $6 million is necessary annually to maintain these essential services.

Tacoma's deputy city manager, Sonja Hallum, pointed out that the repercussions of these closures will extend beyond the city, affecting the entire region. The local government is committed to advocating for state funding to avert the closures and continue supporting the homeless community. With significant challenges ahead, the city is focused on finding immediate solutions to the growing homelessness crisis.