DESC

A new report from the King County, Washington - Government Department of Community and Human Services found that Housing First is linked to a drop in jail bookings!

In the analysis looking at 5,371 adults in permanent supportive housing programs between 2021 and 2025, jail bookings decreased by 27% in the first year after people moved into housing.

“This analysis comes at an important moment,” said Daniel Malone, executive director of DESC. “The data shows that when people have access to supportive housing with services, they experience greater stability over time. These are outcomes that benefit not only residents but the broader community as well."

"Sustaining that progress requires continued partnership and commitment across every level of government, alongside nonprofit providers and community organizations. As homelessness continues to impact communities throughout our region, it is critical that we protect and strengthen investments in supportive housing and services that help people remain housed.”

Read more here!

King County data: Stable housing tied to 27% drop in jail bookings in first year Stable housing is linked to a sharp and lasting drop in jail bookings for people who have experienced homelessness, according to new King County data.An analysi

Every one of our clients has a unique story, but they share one thing in common: they kept going — even when the road ahead was difficult.

Once housed, people gain the stability, permanence, and wraparound support they need to break the cycle of chronic homelessness and begin pursuing their goals for the future.

And they stay housed. As of 2025, more than 83% of DESC tenants have remained in their housing for five or more years.

No matter the path, housing provides the foundation people need to stay safe, supported, and stable.

Learn more here: https://www.desc.org/about/who-we-serve/

Last month, DESC's ORCA staff and community partners provided treatment, medical care, and ongoing support to community members in the Little Saigon neighborhood of Seattle!

Over the course of the three days, ORCA staff connected 26 people to medication for opioid use disorder treatment — including nine individuals who started monthly long-acting injectable buprenorphine!

This medication helps manage cravings, can prevent overdose, and supports long-term recovery.

Staff also referred four people to DESC’s STAR Center, a service-rich, non-congregate shelter offering comprehensive support, hot meals, showers, and community enrichment.

Thank you to the Seattle Fire Department, Harborview Medical Center, Public Health - Seattle & King County, REACH/LEAD — Evergreen Treatment Services, and everyone who made this event possible!

Learn more here: https://www.desc.org/descs-orca-team-helps-connect-people-to-opioid-treatment-during-little-saigon-outreach-event/