News Links
The following links comprise a select grouping of recent news articles from across the United States that relate directly to the work that Building Changes is doing to end homelessness. They in no way reflect the numerous articles that are published each day covering the complex issues related to homelessness. Links to websites of our partner organizations, where other news articles may be found, are located in Resources and Related Links.
Facing $2.6 billion shortfall, Gregoire to seek tax increase to balance budget
The Seattle Times
12.09.09
Governor Gregoire released a state budget this morning that would, amongst other items, eliminate the General Assistance-Unemployable program, suspend the state’s all-day kindergarten, and lower the qualifying income threshold for college financial aid. Governor Gregoire however said she does not support the proposed measures and plans to draft a new budget in early January.
Governor unveils drastic social service cuts in first budget
United Way of King County Blog
12.09.09
Daffodilians, homeless group could get more funding
Neil Pierson
The Herald
12.09.09
The Puyallup City Council plans to give foundation grantee Helping Hand House $20,000 to help families find long-term housing and employment. The council is also considering increasing funding for Open Hearth Ministries in order to provide homeless families short-term shelter.
Issaquah's largest affordable housing development breaks ground
Issaquah Reporter
12.08.09
The City of Issaquah and the YWCA of Seattle-King County-Snohomish County held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Issaquah Highlands housing development, a 146 unit low- and moderate-income housing complex that is expected to be completed by September 2011. The foundation provided $1 million in funding for the project.
Hunger, Family Homelessness on Rise In U.S. Cities
Reuters
12.08.09
Reuters reported a rise in hunger and family homelessness nationwide in the U.S. Conference of Mayors' annual Hunger and Homelessness Survey. The report however indicated that family homelessness in Washington state remained level during the past year.
Clallam agency offers funds for projects that fight homelessness
Peninsula Daily News
12.06.09
The Clallam County Department of Health and Human Services issued a request for applications for the $250,000 it plans to distribute to agencies that provide homeless assistance and affordable housing services. In 2009, Healthy Families of Clallam County, a foundation grantee, received funding to maintain a domestic violence emergency shelter, and to provide supportive services for individuals at risk of becoming homeless due to domestic violence.
A student by day, he's homeless by night
The Herald
12.04.09
The Herald highlighted one student’s struggle with homelessness while attending Everett Community College.
Housing Shortage for Lowest Income Families Increased From 2007 to 2008
DS News
12.01.09
A report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition states that the shortage of housing affordable for low-income households has drastically increased as the need for low income housing continues to rise.
$7.5 million to keep a roof over their heads
Washington Post
12.01.09
The Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program will disburse $7.5 million in federal stimulus funds to help nearly 800 D.C. families by responding to their urgent housing needs, including homelessness prevention, rapid rehousing, counseling and search assistance, and legal services for landlord disputes.
The Fund for the Needy: Low-income learn tools to land a job, support a family
The Seattle Times
11.30.09
Hopelink, an Eastside social services agency provides assistance to low-income families, including preparation for seeking jobs. Donations have declined and Hopelink needs to raise $3 million to meet the needs of its clients in 2010.
Economy deals homeless youth support center double whammy
CNN
11.28.09
YouthCare, an organization that oversees the Orion Center in Seattle, expects a 50 percent increase in demand for services this year—the same time that YouthCare is experiencing reduced resources from donors.
Building Changes in the News
For additional Building Changes' press coverage and press releases, go to our Press Room.
Housing solutions start with more tents
SeattlePI.com
05.23.09
The City Club of Seattle hosted a forum on Friday to discuss affordable housing, tent cities, federal funding, and the city's housing levy. Betsy Lieberman, executive director of Building Changes, was in attendance and provided comment.
Building Changes' bold endeavor hits home
The Daily News
04.19.09
The Daily News editorial board highlights the new Washington Families Fund strategy and two recent Building Changes grants given to the Drug Abuse Prevention Center and the Emergency Support Shelter in Kelso.
Tacoma, Pierce housing agencies sharpen shovels
The News Tribune
04.18.09
The Tacoma Housing Authority has announced plans to spend about $4 million in economic stimulus money to improve about 350 senior residences around the city and start redeveloping about 140 affordable housing units in South Tacoma. Tacoma officials are also seeking to match the money with funds from Building Changes, through the Washington Families Fund.
