Yakima looks to 'Housing First' approach as homelessness grows

Solutions to homelessness are becoming more of a political issue – especially for a strategy known as “Permanent Supportive Housing,” or “Housing First.”

This policy emphasizes getting people into housing as a first step toward solving more chronic issues like mental health or addiction. For decades this approach has had bipartisan support, but recent challenges from Republicans at the federal level are threatening the avenues for local programs to tap into national funds.

That means regions like Yakima County, which is just starting to build permanent housing, may face even more competition for funding. As part of a five-year housing plan, the area is emphasizing "permanent supportive housing," spearheaded by a number of local organizations and nonprofits.

"In the past, when I hear about homelessness, it's always been, 'What's homelessness like in Seattle or Portland,'" said Mai Hoang, Central and Eastern Washington reporter for Crosscut. "But it is becoming more visible, and if you're in certain spaces, it's very visible."

This year's point in time count estimated 700-900 people are currently living outside, but the state's Snapshot of Homelessness shows there could be more than 9,000 people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in the region.

In a recent story for Crosscut, Hoang spoke with residents who've now found housing at Neighborhood Apartments, a former hotel now converted into a permanent supportive housing unit, and outlines the region's approach to homelessness as Yakima's five-year housing plan reaches its conclusion in 2024.

You can read Mai Hoang's reporting here.

Hear the full interview with Soundside by clicking "play" on the audio above.