Zahilay Issues Statement Regarding New Data Illustrating the Immediate Impact of the Health Through Housing Program

June 13, 2025

King County Council Chair Girmay Zahilay is issuing the following statement regarding brand new data released that illustrates the effectiveness of King County’s Health Through Housing Initiative.

The report shows significant improvement in both housing stability and health outcomes for its residents. The initiative repurposes former hotels and other unused buildings into permanent supportive housing, offering on-site services like medical and mental health care to individuals facing long-term homelessness. The program also offers on-site services like workforce training, food programs, financial planning, and case management.

“New data released today on King County’s Health Through Housing program is proof that when King County invests in our people, we get strong results. It’s even further proof of just what’s possible when a regional government works effectively with local governments, like Renton and Auburn. This is a regional issue that requires regional cooperation, and I want to thank the leadership of those cities as well as Executive Shannon Braddock for her leadership and continued support of this critical program.

“Health Through Housing isn’t just about shelter. It’s about creating a path toward long-term stability, improved health, and dignity for our neighbors who have experienced chronic homelessness. When 95% of residents in permanent supportive housing are staying housed, and we’re seeing measurable improvements in hospital stays and ER visits, we know we’re on the right track.
 
“Data like this offers a hopeful glimpse into what’s possible when smart, compassionate policy is put into action. We’re seeing shorter hospital stays, reduced emergency room use, and more efficient use of public resources—all pointing to the fact that housing is healthcare, and a smart public health investment. While there’s still significant work ahead to address the full scale of the homelessness crisis, these encouraging results show us what we can achieve with combined regional efforts, community support, the irreplaceable work of local organizations like the Chief Seattle Club and Lavender Rights Project, and public investment in proven, data-driven solutions.

“This is why I will continue to champion efforts like Health Through Housing. Because everyone deserves a safe place to call home, and because supporting our most vulnerable isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the morally and fiscally responsible thing to do.”

King County anticipates opening three new Health Through Housing locations later this year. This will include locations in Seattle, Kirkland, and Federal Way.