YAKIMA COUNTY, Wash. – Yakima County is taking a major step in addressing homelessness by hosting its first strategic session with over 120 stakeholders, including local officials and community leaders.
This session marks the start of efforts to update the county’s 5-Year Plan to Address Homelessness, crucial for accessing state funding.
The session focused on current challenges and fostering collaboration among local organizations. Discussions covered affordable housing, mental health services, substance abuse support and employment opportunities.
Following this, Yakima County will hold three community forums to engage residents in dialogue. These forums aim to gather community input for the 5-Year Plan.
“Homelessness is a complex issue that requires a coordinated response,” said Yakima County Commissioner Kyle Curtis. “By bringing together stakeholders and engaging our community, we can create sustainable solutions that address both the immediate needs and long-term challenges facing individuals experiencing homelessness.”
The forums will be open to the public, inviting residents, business owners and service providers to participate. The first forum is scheduled for Mon., March 3 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Yakima County Resource Center, located at 2403 S. 18th St. in Union Gap.
