SPOKANE VALLEY — The Council unanimously approved a $1,095,078 award to Family Promise of Spokane to provide homelessness services through its Valley FLASH (Fast-Leasing & Sustainable Housing) Program at their regular meeting on Aug. 8.
On May 16, 2023, Council gave consensus to allocate $3,998,535 in funding to support affordable housing and homelessness efforts.
Out of this general fund, $1,095,078 was awarded to Family Promise of Spokane.
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was signed into law in 2021 and it provides for a wide variety of funding for a variety of purposes, including direct assistance to small businesses, for homeless and affordable housing purposes, and to state and local governments.
The City of Spokane Valley has received approximately $16 million from the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (“CLFR”).
The United States Treasury provided a formula on how to calculate lost revenue. Based on the formula, the City calculated that the ARPA funds received may be used for any governmental service to replace lost revenue.
The City has primarily used these funds towards its law enforcement contract costs. As a result of replacing that money, the City has identified it will have a corresponding amount of general fund revenue available for use by City Council towards other projects or community needs. According to city documentation, the grant funding will provide emergency housing services at the Valley House Assisted Living, located at 401 S Eastern Rd., which offers between three and five rooms, and case managers to help assist in rehousing efforts.
Families may also seek assistance through the Family Promise Center, to access the Emergency Family Shelter.
Resident Barb Howard said “When Family Promise first started I really supported it…do they vet these people? Nobody cares about the children!” Howard said regarding the placements of families in need by the Family Promise Program.
Joe Ader, of Family Promise of Spokane, said “Barb, give me a call and we’ll take care of that situation. We’re so excited to be a part of this expansion into the Valley.”
The City Manager will execute this grant agreement and take such action as necessary at the earliest available opportunity, according to city documentation.
Lucas is a former Cheney Free Press managing editor. He is a nationally published author who contributes regularly to several publications across the country.
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