Seattle getting new and enhanced homeless shelter
Jul 10, 2017, 9:22 AM
People living on the streets of Seattle will have another option for shelter on Wednesday. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
(AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Seattle’s homeless navigation center finally opens its doors Wednesday after long delays.
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People can come and go from the shelter as they please. They can bring their pets and partners and, though it’s discouraged, people are allowed to drink and use drugs there so long as it doesn’t bother others.
Residents will also be offered to mental health, addiction and housing services.
The city converted the Pearl Warren Building at 606 12th Avenue South into the Navigation Center. There are expanded shower facilities, storage space, and other modifications. It is modeled after shelters in San Francisco — dormitory-style housing with showers, laundry facilities, and food provided.
The city plans to house up to 75 people at once.
There is a 60-day cap on stays.
In a recent evaluation of permitted homeless encampments, the city found more than 400 adults (18 and over) are living in them. Sixty percent of camp residents are male, 39 percent female, and 1 percent are transgender.
