Stay informed about social issues news and updates in Snohomish, WA.
A pilot rental assistance program in Snohomish has provided crucial support to 17 families facing housing instability, funded through state legislative measures. With around $60,000 allocated for 2025, the initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden of rising housing costs, impacting nearly 30% of homeowners and 40% of renters in the area.
The City of Everett has extended the cease-and-desist deadline for Hope ‘N Wellness, a vital resource center for the homeless, from February 28 to April 30, 2025. While the city maintains zoning objections regarding the center's location, Mayor Cassie Franklin emphasized the importance of its services and announced efforts to find a new location and potential funding sources.
Hope 'N Wellness, a resource center for the homeless in Everett, faces closure due to city code violations prohibiting social services on the first floor of downtown buildings. Despite serving hundreds of individuals, including many seniors, the city has mandated a shutdown by February 28, raising concerns about the welfare of the unhoused community in the region.
Hope 'N Wellness, a crucial resource for homeless individuals in downtown Everett, is facing closure due to a city code violation. The facility provided essential services such as rest, advice on resources, and winter clothing, highlighting the ongoing challenges in addressing homelessness in the region. This development raises significant concerns about the availability of safe spaces for vulnerable populations in Everett.
The Historic Downtown Snohomish Association (HDSA) is focused on balancing community events and local business interests as they discuss the future of downtown festivities. HDSA Board President Ken Coman highlights the importance of maintaining First Street as a vibrant business district while still hosting popular events. The organization aims to enhance existing events and advocate for local businesses in 2025.
The Snohomish County Youth Suicide Prevention Taskforce invites the community to the “You Are Not Alone” event on March 1, aimed at building resilience among youth and addressing mental health issues. This event reflects the county's commitment to supporting mental health initiatives in the community.
Snohomish County will celebrate the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a two-day community event on January 19 and 20, featuring a Sunday service and a march. The celebration, themed “Mission Possible: Working together to achieve the dream,” includes key speeches and youth recognition through an essay and art contest.
Snohomish County is preparing for its annual Point-in-Time Count of homelessness, scheduled for January 23, 2025, after last year's survey indicated a 9.6% decrease in homelessness. The county has secured $16.1 million in HUD funding to support various initiatives aimed at addressing homelessness, including converting hotels into emergency housing and expanding rapid rehousing efforts.
Gloria Hopkins, at age 91, retired as the oldest classified employee in Washington state after 27 years of service at the Monroe Correctional Complex. Her retirement celebration on December 31 was marked by heartfelt tributes from colleagues and family, highlighting her significant contributions to the community, including co-founding a nonprofit recreation center for teens.
The Snohomish County Human Services Department is set to conduct the annual Point-in-Time Homeless Count on January 23, 2025, to assess homelessness in the region. This essential initiative, supported by volunteers and local agencies, aims to gather data that will inform funding and services for those experiencing homelessness. Community involvement is encouraged, highlighting the county's ongoing commitment to addressing this critical issue.