Stay informed about social issues news and updates in Yakima, WA.
Community members in Sunnyside rallied on February 8, 2025, to support immigrants and oppose deportation efforts, with over 300 participants lining key streets. This demonstration highlights the local commitment to immigrant rights amidst ongoing national debates on immigration policy. The event reflects the significant role immigrants play in the Yakima Valley community.
The "Keep Families Together March" is scheduled for May 1st in downtown Yakima, starting at Miller Park at 12:00 PM. Participants are encouraged to gather at 11:00 AM to support the event aimed at advocating for family unity. This local demonstration reflects ongoing social issues related to immigration and family separation policies.
A gathering in Yakima on February 13 will honor missing and murdered Indigenous women and people, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability for violence against Indigenous communities. Organized by Cissy Strong Reyes, the event will feature speakers, resources for families, and information on local advocacy efforts. This gathering reflects ongoing community efforts to address the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous individuals.
Sections of streets in Yakima will be temporarily closed on January 20th for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration March, starting at 12:00 pm. The event, which honors the civil rights leader, is expected to attract over 400 participants and will involve rolling street closures managed by the Yakima Police Department.
The Yakima Valley will celebrate National Night Out on August 6th, an event aimed at fostering community spirit and promoting crime prevention. Numerous neighborhood block parties and events hosted by local organizations and businesses will take place, encouraging residents to unite against crime. This annual initiative not only strengthens community ties but also enhances public safety awareness.
A 15-year-old girl named Mia Tolman, who ran away from a Yakima evaluation and treatment center, has been located following a community appeal by Yakima police. The incident highlights the challenges faced by youth in involuntary placements and the importance of community awareness in ensuring their safety.
The “March for Immigrants” is scheduled for May 1st in Downtown Yakima, starting and ending at Miller Park, with participants encouraged to gather at noon. This event aims to highlight the importance of immigrant rights and community solidarity in the region. Local residents are invited to join and express their support for immigrant communities.
A free workshop hosted by the City of Yakima on July 11th aims to educate retirees and their families about local senior housing and healthcare options. This initiative addresses vital community needs, encouraging informed decision-making for those approaching retirement. The event will take place at the Harman Senior Center, providing essential resources for attendees.
Yakima is grappling with a significant affordable housing crisis, with a population of approximately 98,650 and a housing vacancy rate below 2%. The Office of Neighborhood Development Services administers federal funding aimed at addressing this urgent need, including Community Development Block Grants and HOME Investment Funds. With nearly 22% of residents living below the federal poverty level, the city is actively seeking solutions to improve its housing stock and community services.
The article discusses the ongoing challenges of affordable housing in Yakima County, highlighting the plight of residents facing increasing rents and limited options. It features various perspectives on the local housing market, including the struggles of mobile home communities and the impact of recent economic changes. The piece emphasizes the urgent need for solutions to support low-income renters amidst rising costs.