Homelessness in a pandemic

CHENEY – Homelessness has been an increasingly pertinent topic for several years, and even more so recently with the impact of the pandemic and aftereffects.

Bob Peeler, who has been with SNAP for 40 years, said housing costs and rent have drastically increased during this period.

The average cost of rent has gone up nearly 25%, and it is putting a lot of pressure on residents, he said, adding there is not enough shelter availability in Spokane County, and that is a key factor.

A housing specialist, Peeler said he has seen an increase in the number of requests from senior citizens and elderly...