A 21-unit shelter for unhoused women and children may seem insignificant, but it represents another step toward eradicating homelessness in King County.

Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission has received a $3 million award from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines to fund the construction of the emergency shelter in South King County for homeless women and children. Construction is scheduled to begin later this year.

Homelessness in the Seattle area continues to rise, with more than 16,000 individuals counted last year by the King County Regional Homelessness Authority. This year’s count will take place later this month. A recent report by The Pew Charitable Trusts and architectural firm Gensler noted that Seattle has one of the highest homelessness rates among major U.S. cities, with 59.4 per 10,000 inhabitants — far exceeding the national average. The city’s housing costs and median rents of $2,031 have fueled the growing crisis. The report also highlighted the potential for converting unused office spaces into affordable housing.

In February, Pierce County will launch a 100-Day Challenge to address youth homelessness, supported by $3.5 million in federal funding.

“This funding will enable us to create a safe haven where homeless women and children can find refuge, begin their journey toward long-term stability, and take next steps toward rebuilding their lives,” says Scott Chin, president of Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission.

Founded in 1932 during the Great Depression, Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission is a nonprofit organization serving people experiencing homelessness throughout greater Seattle. Its services also include a 106-bed women’s shelter in Rainier Valley, a men’s shelter downtown, and a day center in Kent, among other programs. Last year, the mission served nearly 500,000 meals and provided close to 160,000 nights of safe shelter.