Spokane launches 155 new scattered shelter beds to enhance community recovery efforts

Spokane City officials announced significant progress in their efforts to expand emergency housing options during a recent meeting on January 28, 2025. The city is set to introduce 155 new beds through scattered site shelters, aimed at providing essential support for vulnerable populations, including those facing domestic violence and addiction recovery.

The scattered site shelters will be operated by local partners, including Compassionate Addiction Treatment, which will manage a site at 960 East Third Avenue. This location is designed to offer privacy and a conducive environment for recovery. Another partner, operating in the Chief Gary Park neighborhood and near Gonzaga University, emphasized the importance of confidentiality for the families they serve, particularly those escaping domestic violence.

City officials highlighted that many of these sites have been in operation for years without complaints, demonstrating their integration into the community. The Housing Navigation Center, located in the Brown's Addition neighborhood, will serve as a central hub to connect individuals to these scattered shelters, facilitating access through a referral system tailored to specific needs.

In response to concerns about the locations of these new facilities, officials reassured the public that the sites are strategically placed to alleviate pressure on downtown resources. The city is committed to a holistic approach, which includes community outreach initiatives led by law enforcement to enhance engagement with residents and business owners in the downtown area.

The meeting concluded with a clear message: the city is not only expanding its emergency housing capacity but is also committed to ensuring that these services are effectively integrated into the community, with ongoing efforts to monitor and improve the situation for all stakeholders involved.