In a meaningful stride toward addressing the homeless crisis, Burien just pocketed a cool $1 million in grants aimed at sheltering the city's most vulnerable families. The windfall from King County will pump vital funds into the redevelopment of the Mary’s Place family shelter, turning a beacon of hope into a robust haven for those in dire need.

This isn't the first time Burien has stepped up to the plate. Previously, the city's council had thrown their weight behind the project. In February 2023, they gave the nod to fork over their share of the capital funding pie, adding up to more than $1 million. Come September, the council didn't just nod, they raced through an interim zoning ordinance to ensure Mary’s Place and Mercy Housing Northwest didn't miss out on critical funding. And it's not just the locality pulling the strings—Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal put in a word to snag an additional $1 million through her 2024 Community Project Funding list.

Thanks to this financial lift, the Mary’s Place project on Ambaum Blvd SW will soon make room for over 200 family members each sunset. Complementing this shelter boost, Burien is laying down the groundwork for 90 units of permanently affordable housing, with Mercy Housing Northwest in the mix. The shelter isn't just a roof and walls—it’s a setup with management, services, and community resources all under one umbrella.

For Burien City Manager Adolfo Bailon, it’s a vision unfolding. According to the City of Burien's announcement, Bailon said, “We look forward to this development to increase safe and supportive shelter in Burien for families experiencing homelessness. These funds move us closer to that vision.” It's as clear as day that Burien isn't just talking the talk; they're walking the walk, leading the charge in a fight that many talk up but few step up to.