Overview:

Downtown Emergency Service Center’s 1811 Eastlake project is a “housing first” program for 75 homeless men and women with chronic alcohol addiction. The project is the first of its kind in Washington State to address the needs of alcoholics who are the heaviest users of crisis services. The entire project was designed to help residents keep their housing and improve their lives. The architecture, staffing patterns, program values, and resident interaction all combine to create a program that helps residents succeed.

Video Presentation:

Watch the 20 minute presentation by the DESC leadership at the Maxwell Finalist Presentations event on January 24, 2008, including question and answer with the 2007 Maxwell Awards' Advisory Committee.

Location: Seattle, Washington

Target Population: Chronically Homeless

# of new units created: 75

Income level of residents: <30% AMI – 100% of residents

Support Services Offered:

• On-site services: 24 hour staffing, state licensed mental health care and chemical dependency treatment, health care provided by a full time public health RN, daily meals and veteran’s support groups
• Off-site services: not specified

Additional Photos: