Crisis Services

How many emergency beds are available? And how many people are turned away from shelter? Are we doing enough to end homelessness?

Crisis services are the last resort for many families in Pierce County. A significant percentage of the population in our community receives public assistance, keeping them from outright homelessness or even greater hunger.

Public assistance programs are making the difference between whether or not families are able to maintain housing stability, go hungry or have enough money to heat their homes. Emergency payment services are being used more than ever before and DSHS caseloads are increasing as well.

Food banks are also being stretched to feed more clients and calls to the South Sound 2-1-1 call center are helping more people find housing and food. We are making a difference but there is a lot left to do.

	Total Number and Percent of Residents Accessing DSHS		Annual Homeless Count
	Total Number and Percent of Residents Accessing DSHS Basic Needs Programs		Emergency Beds Available, Emergency Bed Usage, and Shelter Turn-Aways
	Total Number and Percent of Seniors Accessing DSHS Services by Age Cohort		2-1-1 Calls Related to Emergency Services
	Total Number and Percent of Residents Accessing DSHS Services by Age Cohort		Pierce County DSHS Case Loads
	Households Accessing Emergency Payment Services		Homeless Families Counted
	Households Using Food Bank Services