City Calls Nonprofit's Closure of 15 Homeless Shelters an Unnecessary 'Advocacy Move'

As Seattle struggles to respond to a growing homelessness crisis, a local nonprofit is closing 15 overnight shelters due to a funding shortage, leaving about 300 people looking for somewhere else to sleep.

Representatives from the nonprofit SHARE/WHEEL said they're $75,000 in debt and unable to sustain the homeless shelters they operate in church basements and other buildings throughout the city. SHARE organizers blame decreased county funding and increased costs (including inflation and the minimum wage) for their shortfall. They say the organization needs $10,000 more per month than it's currently receiving from government contracts and donations in order to keep the shelters open.