As a case manager at a nonprofit in Seattle, I see daily how difficult it is for people to access reasonable housing and shelter accommodations. Too often, I hear the misconception that “all the homeless in Seattle want to be homeless.” That simply isn’t true — while there may be a few exceptions, the vast majority are actively trying to improve their situations.
Seattle has many resources, but system barriers prevent people from accessing them. Most shelters and housing programs require a referral from Coordinated Entry, yet nonprofit referrals are not accepted.
Getting someone from Coordinated Entry on the phone is frustratingly difficult, and securing an appointment after that can seem impossible.
People are told to call 211, but 211 cannot directly connect to Coordinated Entry. Meanwhile, shelters and housing programs report open beds, but without the correct referral, people remain on the streets.
As a result, there are beds that go empty at night while people remain unhoused due to bureaucratic roadblocks.
If you want to help Seattle do better and get people off the streets, please take a moment to email or call your elected representatives – it matters.
If you choose not to take action, I urge you at least to show compassion for people experiencing homelessness. Homelessness does not look one specific way, and you don’t always know how hard someone is working to get on their feet.
submitted by /u/cat__therapist
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