As UUC embarked on the conversation about hosting Tent City 3, several congregants expressed interest in working on systemic issues that impact those who are unhoused in our community.

The TC3 Team’s hope is that our “getting proximate” to TC3’s community of unhoused individuals will be a step towards inspiring us as a congregation to get more involved in addressing these issues. We can support legislative and other efforts to rid our community of the scourge of homelessness by increasing the housing supply, mental health treatment, and more. In the next few weeks we as individuals can take important actions.

Ready to jump in, just need to know where? Here are two timely actions you can take:

• Governor Inslee has proposed to ask voters to allow the state to borrow $4 billion for housing projects. Over the next several weeks both houses will be working to pass a budget by the April 23 deadline and substantial funding for housing is on the table. Contact your legislators and thank Governor Inslee for pushing this issue.
• In King County voters will have an opportunity on April 25 to vote on the Crisis Care Centers Levy, which would raise $1.25 billion over nine years for five new short-stay facilities to provide walk-in access to behavioral health services. These services are much needed, and, as a Seattle Times columnist noted last Sunday will not be enough unless accompanied by other actions. On-going advocacy is needed. 

Want to learn more?

Sunday, April 9, 12:40–1:30 p.m. in the Knatvold Room

Civic Academy on Mental Health in King County

Presented by Sound Alliance on King County Prop 1 levy to support Crisis Care Centers, with special ballot due April 25

See previous post.

Sunday, April 16 in Nathan Johnson Hall after each service

UUC’s Tent City 3 Team is hosting a learning station after both services with more information about King County Prop 1 and Governor Inslee’s budget proposal.