Currently, there are at least 3,300 of our neighbors living unhoused in Pierce County — realistically, that number is much higher. The situation involves a complicated set of problems: high housing prices, lack of affordable housing options even if people have housing vouchers, severe income inequality and systemic racism, substance and behavioral health complications, domestic violence, and the trauma of modern life. Over the last two years of COVID all of these problems have worsened.
A complicated set of problems requires a comprehensive plan of action. Pierce County has been working on just that. Pierce County Social Service Supervisors Gerrit Nyland, and Delmar M. Algee III join host Evelyn Lopez to discuss the county’s plan, what it is, and what will be required to make a significant change in our homelessness numbers (spoiler alert: about $120 million per year, and strong management).
Please take a look at the plan, and particularly the shelter action plan that details current shelter options and the costs of adding short-term and long-term shelter spaces. Then think about how you can get involved now, and how you can support this process. The comprehensive plan will come to the County Council for review and action in March.
https://www.piercecountywa.gov/7309/2021-Comprehensive-Plan-to-End-Homelessn
Have questions or comments? We would be happy to hear from you!
Gerrit Nyland: gerrit.nyland@piercecountywa.gov
Delmar Algee: delmar.algee@piercecountywa.gov
Evelyn Lopez: truetacoma@gmail.com @TrueTacoma
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