Accessible and affordable housing is a cornerstone of thriving communities, but for too many working families and veterans nationwide, housing insecurity is front of mind.

We need to tackle this head-on to ensure that everyone has a safe and affordable place to call home. There are policy tools we can leverage to accomplish this, and I am working to:

• Dedicate resources to reduce homelessness in our communities;
• Prioritize investments in community development initiatives, including infrastructure projects, job creation, and revitalization efforts that enhance the quality of life for Washingtonians;
• Strengthen the capacity of local organizations that provide affordable housing options and essential services.

To accomplish this, I secured $10,662,665 from the Bipartisan Spending Package for 10 important priorities in our district. Much of that money is being spent to ensure houseless residents and families struggling to keep food on the table alike can have a more secure future.

Our community has seen success when we invest in local initiatives. Places like The Way Station ensure that Washington's most vulnerable have access to critical services like medical care, hygiene supplies, immediate- and long-term housing, and case management assistance to navigate these resources. Thanks to years of work and $2,000,000 from the Bipartisan Spending Package, The Way Station will be able to care for people immediately and help them get into stable housing.

In efforts to combat the crisis of homelessness and provide suitable shelter, the City of Everett is launching a pilot program that will help temporarily house youth and families who are experiencing homelessness. $245,560 in funding will help fund this initiative.

Together, we can build a future where safe, affordable housing is a reality for every member of our community.

Thank you,

Rick