Paul Allen, billionaire cofounder of Microsoft, donated $30 million to create permanent a supportive housing and onsite services community for Seattle-area families with children who are experiencing homelessness.
The donation, officially through the Paul G. Allen Foundation, will go toward the development of the site. The city of Seattle will kick in another $5 million for operation and maintenance.
Mercy Housing Northwest, a nonprofit developer that operates 48 properties in Washington state, will develop, own and operate the complex, according to a press release, although other nonprofits will be tapped to provide services for the families.
Almost 1,700 families in King County are waiting for housing, and 3,498 students in the Seattle Public Schools experienced homelessness in the 2015–2016 school year.
Additional details about the design, location and opening will be forthcoming.
Ashley Archibald is a Staff Reporter covering local government, policy and equity. Have a story idea? She can be can reached at ashleya (at) realchangenews (dot) org. Twitter @AshleyA_RC
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