The City of Tacoma continues to make progress in its comprehensive strategy to address homelessness, with strong community partnerships and expanded services that are providing critical support to vulnerable residents. Through collaborative efforts and data-driven decision-making, Tacoma is increasing shelter capacity, expanding access to vital healthcare, and creating pathways to permanent housing.
In the first quarter of 2025, the City achieved several key milestones.
- Expanding Shelter and Support: The Tacoma Rescue Mission Men’s Shelter Expansion project is moving forward, a testament to the power of city, county, state, and federal partnerships. This project will significantly increase shelter capacity for men experiencing homelessness.
- Addressing Critical Health Needs: A $1 million state grant is fueling a new Street Medicine pilot project, bringing healthcare directly to unsheltered individuals. Additional funding from the State Health Care Authority is bolstering opioid use treatment programs through June 2026.
- Investing in Permanent Solutions: Tacoma is investing $2.24 million in Permanent Supportive Housing services, providing stable housing and wraparound support for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness.
- Providing Weather Relief: The City’s robust inclement weather response provided shelter and aid for those who needed it for 42 days, including a 40-day stretch during particularly poor weather.
With more than 1,000 beds made possible through City funding and partnerships, the City is actively working to ensure that individuals transitioning from temporary shelters receive comprehensive case management and are connected to alternative shelter or permanent housing options.
The Forging Path Community shelter continues operations as the site begins its transition to an 81-unit affordable housing development, operated by Mercy Housing Northwest. The development’s transition into affordable housing is supported by the City’s Tacoma Community Redevelopment Authority.
Data continues to play a crucial role in guiding the City’s efforts. The Homeless Management Information System tracked 1,013 individuals utilizing Tacoma’s shelter system in February 2025, while the City’s Homeless Engagement Alternatives Liaison (HEAL) team made 2,856 contacts in 2024, successfully placing 276 individuals into shelter. The HEAL team is also maintaining and utilizing a by-name list and currently supporting 439 individuals experiencing homelessness.
The City remains steadfast in its dedication to addressing homelessness with compassion and a focus on long-term solutions. Future efforts will prioritize streamlining service access, strengthening coordination with partners, and engaging with the community to maximize the impact of its investments.
A recording of today’s City Council Study Session presentation, which provides further details, is available at facebook.com/cityoftacoma.