Tacoma Faces Looming Loss of 350 Homeless Shelter Beds Due to Funding Deficit

Tacoma is preparing for a significant loss of over 350 homeless shelter beds in 2025, primarily due to a projected $12 million funding deficit. City officials, led by Caleb Carbone, are actively seeking assistance from the state Legislature to help maintain these vital facilities. The anticipated closures will impact seven shelters, including Bethlehem Baptist Church and Altheimer Memorial Church, drastically reducing resources available for the city's homeless population. This reduction is alarming, as it represents nearly 400 beds out of Tacoma's approximate 900 shelter spaces, with potential repercussions for the overall capacity in Pierce County. During the pandemic, Tacoma successfully expanded its shelter operations using temporary funding, but that support is now dwindling.

The city has secured $3 million to keep most shelters operational through the first half of 2025, but approximately $6 million annually is needed for long-term viability. Officials like Deputy City Manager Sonja Hallum emphasize the importance of state funding, noting that the impact of these closures would extend beyond city limits. As the legislative session approaches, city leaders are committed to exhausting all options to secure funding and protect these shelters for the vulnerable community they serve.