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

Tacoma is preparing for a significant reduction of over 350 homeless shelter beds by 2025 due to a funding deficit, prompting city officials to seek financial support from the state Legislature. The anticipated loss includes 379 beds across seven shelters, such as Bethlehem Baptist Church and Altheimer Memorial Church, which are set to close in June 2025. Caleb Carbone, the homeless strategy manager, indicated that this situation aligns with earlier projections of a $12 million funding gap for maintaining shelter operations. Deputy city manager Sonja Hallum highlighted the broader implications for Pierce County, as Tacoma accommodates nearly 80% of the county's shelter capacity, warning that the closures would affect the entire region. The city has managed to secure $3 million to sustain most shelters through the first half of 2025, but a collective $6 million is necessary for ongoing operations.

The urgency of the upcoming legislative session could determine the future of these vital services for the homeless population. With the expiration of pandemic-related funding that previously supported the shelters, the city may face dire consequences without immediate legislative action. The loss of these shelter beds threatens individual lives and raises questions about the city's capacity to address homelessness effectively.