CHCs Aim to Address the Harms of Washington’s Housing Crisis

When people don’t have consistent housing, it’s much harder to manage health care issues and find providers who understand their unique needs. That’s why community health centers in Washington have developed programs and partnerships to provide tailored care to over 114,000 people experiencing homelessness in the state.

One of the most significant social drivers of health impacting the people of Washington state is housing insecurity and homelessness. Data shows people experiencing homelessness have a higher burden of illness, including chronic disease, infectious disease and behavioral health conditions, than the general population.

CHCs provide medical, dental, mental health, and substance use services to those experiencing homelessness across the state, but many are also connecting people to valuable supportive services, including housing.

Many CHCs recognize that helping their patients’ health means going beyond medical support , and this includes the need to address housing insecurity. As experts in delivering health care services with strong roots in their communities, CHCs make excellent health care partners to provide on site health care services at affordable housing providers or collaborate with housing partners to support their patients who live there. Some are even going to the root of the problem through housing development.

Individual CHCs have different programs to address the specific needs in their area. Some common services in include:

• Mobile vans to reach people where they are

• Building affordable housing communities

• Provider referrals to local supportive services

• Hygiene services, like restroom, laundry, and shower facilities

• Using outreach teams to build trust

• Treating people’s immediate needs and connecting them with preventative care 

Reach out to your local community health center to learn more about the homelessness services in your area. You can find your closest center by visiting the Health Resources and Services Administration here.