City Joins HUDs House America Initiative

Tacoma has joined HUD's House America Initiative, a critical effort designed to address the growing homelessness crisis through a collaborative Housing First approach. Announced by Mayor Victoria Woodards and HUD Regional Administrator Margaret Salazar, the initiative sets a goal for Tacoma to develop 96 affordable housing units by December 31, 2022. This national partnership seeks to leverage substantial federal funding from the American Rescue Plan to re-house at least 100,000 households facing homelessness while adding 20,000 new affordable housing units nationwide. Local assessments indicate that there are currently 1,005 sheltered homeless individuals in the area, with 405 residing in Tacoma, underscoring the urgent need for effective solutions. The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified these challenges, slowing down re-housing efforts and exacerbating risks for vulnerable populations.

Mayor Woodards highlighted the importance of federal partnerships in tackling homelessness, emphasizing a proactive approach to innovation in affordable housing. As Tacoma embarks on this initiative, the city aims to not only meet local housing needs but also contribute to a broader national strategy for addressing homelessness. This commitment reflects a significant step forward in prioritizing the welfare of those at risk of losing their homes.