At the Westside Coalition, we’re driven by a passionate commitment to building a brighter future for all members of our community. Today, we’re excited to share updates on our recent advocacy efforts aimed at addressing pressing issues affecting our neighborhoods.
Advocating for Housing and Homelessness Initiatives
In recent communications with legislative leadership, we’ve emphasized the critical need for funding to support housing and homelessness initiatives. Our focus has been on advocating for two key priorities outlined in the Governor’s budget:
- $2.5 Million for Shelter City Mitigation: We’ve joined with City Council members Puy and Petro in highlighting this as a top priority. This funding is crucial in addressing the immediate challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness in our city.
- $25 Million for Low Barrier Shelter Startup Costs: Recognizing the urgent need along the trail, we echo the sentiments of Soren Simonsen in emphasizing the importance of this funding. Establishing low barrier shelters is a vital step towards providing safe and accessible housing options for our most vulnerable community members.
We firmly believe that investing in these initiatives is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic move towards building stronger, more resilient communities.
Supporting Economic Development in the Fairpark Area
In addition to our housing advocacy, we’ve expressed our support for the ballpark bill and associated investment in the Fairpark area. While staying high-level in our approach, we’ve conveyed our optimism for the potential economic benefits and community development opportunities this project could bring.
Our letter underscores our commitment to fostering productive partnerships with stakeholders to ensure that any development aligns with the needs and aspirations of our community. We believe in the power of collaboration to create positive, sustainable change.
Moving Forward Together
As advocates for social justice and equitable development, we’re dedicated to advancing policies and initiatives that uplift all members of our community. We will continue to engage with legislators, stakeholders, and fellow community members to drive positive change and address the challenges facing our neighborhoods.
We invite you to join us in this journey towards a more inclusive and vibrant Westside. Together, we can build a future where everyone has access to safe and affordable housing, economic opportunities, and a sense of belonging.
Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to our shared vision.
