Seattle’s housing crisis continues to be a major issue in the city. In 2024’s Point-in-Time Count, more than 16,000 people were reported to be experiencing homelessness on a given day in King County — a 23% increase from 2022, the last time the count was conducted. In general, the use of shelters remains high.
In South Seattle, 37% of residents live at or below an income that is less than twice the official federal poverty guideline for their household size.
As the weather gets colder, sleeping on the streets is only becoming more dangerous.
But through the efforts of community organizing and collaboration, there are places to go for warm shelter and aid. The Emerald put together this non-exhaustive list of shelters and food banks based in the South End for those who are struggling this holiday season. Several of these organizations also provide aid to help individuals get back on their feet through case management and defeat the cycle of homelessness.
Know of any other essential tips or resources that should be on our list? Let us know at Community@SeattleEmerald.org.
9416 Rainier Ave. S., Seattle 98118
206-694-4500
The South Seattle Youth Center is one of the engagement centers by YouthCare, an organization that focuses on ending youth homelessness in King County. Located in Rainier Beach, the center provides overnight shelter, day shelter beds, warm meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, case managers, hygiene supplies, and more.
How to help: The Youth Center’s biggest need is gift cards to help clients access essential needs like food from grocery stores and gas. They also have an Amazon wishlist of winter essentials they’re seeking. Learn more on YouthCare's website.
5270 Rainier Ave. S., Seattle 98118
206-723-1883
Rainier House is one of the Downtown Emergency Service Center’s supportive housing projects, with 50 units of supportive housing for single adults with mental illnesses, substance-use disorders, and other disabilities who have struggled with housing insecurity. The house includes breakfast and dinner services, case management, and mental health care.
How to help: DESC is currently running a $1 million match campaign to fund additional housing and services over the next several years.
3190 South Hanford St., Seattle 98144
206-584-2832
Through Mercy Housing Northwest, the Allen Family Center provides housing for families experiencing homelessness. Other services it provides include help in securing affordable childcare, job navigation, and mental health services.
How to help: Mercy Housing accepts monetary donations, and 90% of the donations go toward the organization’s programs. Since Mercy Housing has locations throughout the country, you can designate your donation to Mercy Housing Northwest to directly aid local programs.
206-328-5696
Catholic Community Services provides a range of services throughout Seattle and South King County, including emergency and overnight shelter, access to meals and toiletries, and case management. It also has services for low-income adults and families seeking rental assistance and other essential needs.
How to help: Catholic Community Services accepts both monetary donations and item donations, such as gift cards, winter clothing, hygiene supplies, and more.
7928 Rainier Ave. S., Seattle 98118
206-723-1712
Muslim Housing Services gives short-term assistance to low-income renters who have received eviction notices, works to rapidly rehouse unhoused clients into apartments, and provides rental assistance, and also manages transitional housing. In addition to housing, MHS provides “culturally and linguistically appropriate case management” and can help provide food, diapers, and furniture.
How to help: Muslim Housing Services accepts monetary donations and item donations, requesting items such as furniture and household items, diapers, food, and used cars.
1010 South Second St., Renton 98057
425-264-1400
YWCA works with women and families to find stable housing, providing emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent shelter. It also provides employment and support services to help clients achieve self-sufficiency. The Renton Regional Center is the hub for these services in South King County.
How to help: YWCA is currently running its Winter Warmth Drive and is seeking things like winter coats, gloves, socks, and scarves.
9021 Rainier Ave. S., Seattle 98118
206-723-4105
Rainier Valley Food Bank offers a range of different ways for people to access food, including pop-up free grocery markets twice a week, a grocery delivery program (which is currently full but has a waitlist), snacks for kids to enjoy during the weekend, and a free meal program. It also provides other services such as social service navigation, financial assistance, and overdose prevention services.
How to help: Rainier Valley Food Bank accepts monetary donations and food and item donations.
2524 16th Ave. S., Seattle 98144
206-957-4634
Located in Beacon Hill, El Centro de la Raza’s food bank is open on Thursdays and Fridays to everyone, and on Wednesdays to seniors only. It provides emergency and supplemental food to low-income individuals and families; a picture ID is required for service. Employees on site can also help clients navigate obtaining food stamps and other non-emergency sources for food.
How to help: El Centro de la Raza acceptsmonetary donations andfood and item donations.
5972 4th Ave. S., Seattle 98108
206-767-9975
The St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank in Georgetown is open Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday every week from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It offers canned items, fresh fruits and vegetables, snacks, and more.
How to help: The St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank is always seeking donations of non-perishable food and personal hygiene items.
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