Seattle expands unified care team to tackle homelessness crisis

In a recent government meeting, officials outlined significant changes to the budget aimed at enhancing the city's unified care capacity. The proposed budget includes an expansion of the Unified Care Team (UCT), allowing it to operate seven days a week instead of the previous five. This expansion will add four new field teams—two stationed at parks and two at the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT)—bringing the total to twelve full-time teams.

The budget also allocates an additional $300,000 to the Human Services Department (HSD) to extend shelter intake hours over the weekends. This funding is intended to ensure that when encampment resolutions occur, shelters can process intakes effectively during these hours.

Officials emphasized the positive shift from the previous navigation team model to the current unified care approach, noting that it has led to improved outcomes for individuals experiencing homelessness. They acknowledged that the current staffing levels are insufficient to meet the demands of the service delivery model, highlighting the need for more case managers to facilitate meaningful engagement with those living on the streets.

The meeting also addressed the evolving role of the Seattle Police Department in this context. While the police were previously at the forefront of outreach efforts, their current role has shifted to providing security for city workers, allowing for a more supportive environment for engagement with individuals in need.

Overall, the proposed budget reflects a commitment to enhancing care services and addressing homelessness in a more effective and compassionate manner.