The City of SeaTac announced this week that it has been awarded a $750,000 state grant to provide emergency housing for asylum seekers, part of the Washington Migrant and Asylum Seeker pilot project.

The funding will help shelter 65 households for up to 90 days, addressing the urgent needs of individuals and families who have fled their home countries due to conflict, persecution, or human rights violations.

This grant will be used to partner with the Congolese Integration Network to deliver emergency housing, along with case management and legal aid services. The program aims to support asylum seekers as they navigate the complexities of their new lives in the United States.

As of June 2024, Washington State is home to an estimated 37,500 asylum seekers, with nearly 18,000 residing in King County alone, including 100 individuals in SeaTac.

The funding will also support the creation of a temporary human services coordinator position to manage this partnership and ensure long-term success.

The City of SeaTac has partnered with King County, Seattle, Tukwila, and the state’s Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance in its commitment to support asylum seekers.

SeaTac officials emphasize that providing shelter and services to these individuals not only aligns with the city’s values but also strengthens the local economy and community.

“The City of SeaTac is committed to supporting the statewide and regional efforts to support those who are seeking protection from dire circumstances in their home countries,” the city said. “Not only is this in line with SeaTac’s values, it’s in the City’s interest to ensure families and individuals living in our City are housed and receive services they need.

“SeaTac is home to many immigrants and refugees who have made and continue to make contributions to our community as community leaders, workers, entrepreneurs, taxpayers, and consumers. Immigrants enrich our community through their diverse cultures, traditions and language and make our local economy stronger.”